The Ciclovia delle Abbazie reveals treasures rich in history and culture hidden in the Marche’s rolling hills. The itinerary is a journey into the legacy of Romanesque architecture within a setting of devotion and natural beauty. The cycle route follows the River Chienti to the hinterland to discover the most important abbeys in the area.

Setoff from the Sanctuary of Santa Maria Apparente in Civitanova Marche and continue through the vibrant city centre to the picturesque marina, where you can admire murals by more than 100 contemporary artists.

Continuing on the cycle path along the southern waterfront, take the road that to the Imperial Abbey of Santa Croce al Chienti in Sant'Elpidio a Mare. The picturesque country roads take you to Montecosaro Scalo where another jewel awaits you, the Abbey of Santa Maria di Piè di Chienti with its two-storey interior.

Cross the quiet Macerata countryside to the Abbey of San Claudio al Chienti, an imposing Romanesque structure with twin towers that dominate the landscape.
The route continues to the Fiastra Abbey Nature Reserve, a peaceful oasis in the hills of the Marche, where it is possible to picnic and relax. Here you can visit the Abbey of Chiaravalle di Fiastra, one of the greatest monuments of Cistercian architecture.
Take the new cycle path through the vineyards of Tolentino and stop at the Castello della Rancia.
Head to the town centre and admire the “Cappellone”, a beautiful, colourful 14th century fresco cycle in the Basilica of San Nicola.

There are several stations along the cycle path on the Civitanova-Fabriano line.