Force – Hotels between copper traditions and art history

The medieval centre of Force sits on a ridge between the Aso and Tesino valleys. From here, views stretch across forests, mountains and valleys all the way to the Adriatic. The town’s setting combines a historic core with far-reaching views of the surrounding landscape. If you’re looking for a hotel in Force, you can shape your stay around its cultural heritage, from art collections and church architecture to traditional crafts.

Copper Craft and Art Collections

Copperworking was already widespread in Force in the early 17th century. The former coppersmiths are also linked to Baccaiamento: according to tradition, this form of speech was used to communicate at fairs and markets. The local craft tradition thus extends beyond the material itself to include a traditional way of exchanging information.

The Museo del Rame is housed in Palazzo Canestrari and the former Church of San Biagio in Force’s historic centre. The museum also has an educational workshop where visitors can learn about copperworking firsthand.

The Museo di Arte Sacra di Force was established in 2007 in historic Palazzo Canestrari and displays artworks from local churches. It is part of the Musei Sistini del Piceno network. Exhibits include Giuseppe Sacconi’s original drawings for the Church of San Francesco and two significant works by Simone De Magistris: scenes from Christ’s childhood painted on wood, and a polychrome stucco Madonna and Child.

Churches and Historic Buildings

Construction of the monumental Church of San Francesco, designed by architect Giuseppe Sacconi, began in 1882. The church stands on the site of a Franciscan monastery founded in 1272. The 13th-century bell tower and two stylophore lions are all that remain of the former monastery. In this way, traces of the medieval monastery meet a church whose construction began in the 19th century.

Beneath the 19th-century Church of San Francesco is a mechanised artistic nativity scene. Created in 1992, it covers an area of 250 square metres. Porta-torre di San Francesco, an 18th-century gate tower, stands on Via San Francesco.

Villino Verrucci was built in 1935 in the Art Nouveau style, at the behest of architect Ernesto Verrucci Bey, who was born in Force. Casa Nativa della Beatrice Maria Assunta Pallotta is considered the birthplace of Blessed Maria Assunta Pallotta. These buildings and the names associated with them offer different historical points of reference in the townscape.

Landscape and Trails

Most of the municipal area is protected for its significant public landscape value; an area within a 250-metre radius of the built-up centre is excluded. The protection measures were established in 1980.

There is a cycle and walking path in Contrada Madonnalago. Stage 15 of the Cammino dei Cappuccini reaches Force near Villino Verrucci Bey. This stage has a viewpoint overlooking the opposite side of the Pallone stream valley. The town brings together different themes: the history of crafts and church art, as well as trails and viewpoints in the landscape.

Discover more destinations: Ponzano, Massignano, San Benedetto Del Tronto, Offida, Porchia, Castorano, Vallefusella, Montalto delle Marche.

For the main travel overview: Ascoli Piceno.