Tourists explore Fontanellato’s medieval castle and San Marino’s Nine Castles cycling loop

Fontanellato, a medieval borgo in the Parma plain, draws visitors to its Rocca Sanvitale, a castle whose moat reflects the water of the town’s historic moat. The centre offers a pedestrian‑only island with markets on Thursday and Sunday, a historic theatre, and baroque churches, earning the town the "Borghi più belli d’Italia" label and the Slow City designation.

In the nearby Republic of San Marino, cyclists can ride the 60‑kilometre Anello dei Nove Castelli, a loop that starts in Fiorentino and passes the historic towns of Acquaviva, Borgo Maggiore, Serravalle, Domagnano, Faetano and Montegiardino before returning to San Marino’s UNESCO‑listed historic centre. The route combines moderate climbs, paved sections and support facilities, showcasing the micro‑state’s medieval fortifications and archaeological sites.