Culture and relaxation around Forlì

A few kilometers from Forlì, on the road leading to Castrocaro Terme, lies Terra del Sole, also known as “Eliopoli” (City of the Sun).

Founded at the behest of Cosimo I de’ Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany, in an effort to create an “ideal fortified city,” it is one of the few urban centers to boast a precise date of foundation: December 8, 1564.

It still retains the charm of a fortress city, surrounded by 13-meter-high walls, enclosing monumental buildings arranged in a rare example of military architecture characterized by symmetry and regularity, such as:

• the Church of S. Reparata
• the Palazzo dei Commissari or Pretorio
• the Palace of the Provveditori
• the Palace of the Chancellery

Continuing along Via Guglielmo Marconi, 2 kilometers from Terra del Sole, you’ll reach Castrocaro Terme, a spa town nestled in an area rich in nature, history, and charming, picturesque spots. Among these:

• Fortress of Castrocaro: one of the finest examples of medieval fortified architecture, which houses the town’s Historical and Archaeological Museum. Seamlessly integrated into its surroundings, the fortress follows the contours of the cliff around which it was built.
• Castrocaro SPA: offering year-round health and wellness programs in a setting where time truly seems to stand still, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
• River Park: A stroll through this green space, traversed by the Montone River, is ideal for those seeking tranquility. The park, which stretches for about 3 km, features picnic areas, fountains, and a fitness trail. The entrance is located near the bridge on Via Conti, right next to the spa.

Rocca delle Caminate is located 16 km from Castrocaro Terme, perched in a commanding position overlooking the valleys below between the Rabbi and Bidente rivers.

The castle dates back to the 10th or 11th century, although its watchtower is likely of Roman origin. Today, it serves as a center for advanced university education and a venue for events and conferences, and its park frequently hosts historical reenactments.

Must-see

The panoramic terrace, from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the valleys all the way to the Adriatic Sea.

To know
It is open to visitors on weekends or by reservation (for groups), with guided tours available to explore its history in greater depth.

Continuing along the road toward Ravaldino in Monte for about 6 km, you’ll reach Meldola, dominated by an imposing fortress, one of the largest in Romagna.

The fortress, which is currently closed to visitors, has had a turbulent history: changing hands several times, it was besieged and conquered by opposing factions, plundered, and damaged by an earthquake.

To visit
The Silkworm Museum, which illustrates how, in past centuries, Meldola was at the forefront of global silk production, competing with China and Japan. Limited opening hours—please check the website for updated schedules.

Not far from Meldola lies Bertinoro: a spectacular medieval hilltop village with a breathtaking view of the Romagna countryside all the way to the sea—hence its nickname, the “Balcony of Romagna”.

Must-See

• Bertinoro’s Episcopal Fortress: You can reach it by walking up Via del Soccorso and passing through the Porta del Soccorso. Built in the 10th century and considered one of the most formidable defensive structures of its time, it now houses the University Residential Center and the Interreligious Museum, with its galleries dedicated to the history of the three monotheistic religions: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.
• Piazza della Libertà: the true heart of Bertinoro, overlooked by the Cathedral, Palazzo Ordelaffi (now the Town Hall), and the Clock Tower.

To taste

Known as the “city of wine,”Bertinoro is renowned for its rich wine production. We therefore recommend stopping at one of the bistros or wineries to enjoy an excellent glass of wine and a delicious dish of traditional local cuisine.