PORTA PIA

Designed by architect Filippo Marchionni, Porta Pia used to be one of the main gateways of Ancona.

Its archway is supported by massive buttresses. The structure is made of blocks of polished Istrian stone. The side that faces towards the sea features Baroque friezes, and is flanked by two pilasters that support the attic. The other side is made of bare sandstone blocks on which a triangular tympanum stands. A marble plaque commemorates the liberation of Ancona from papal rule by the troops of General Cialdini.

[mappress mapid=”38″]

During the French occupation, at the end of the 18th century, the papal coat of arms was removed, many friezes were chiseled off and some material from the inner facade was used to built a fountain close to a nearby spring.

The massive anchor placed next to the arch is dedicated to the people lost at sea.

Since 2010, Porta Pia has hosted art exhibition, such as Ericailcane’s “Rovina”, and cultural events.