Offida – Medieval Gem and Lace Capital
An authentic village nestled in the hills of the Piceno region, where centuries-old traditions, Gothic architecture, and precious lace tell the story of a truly unique territory.
Discover Offida, located about 20 km from Radici Luxury B&B – your ideal B&B in the Marche to explore the authentic Piceno.
The Medieval Village Among the Hills
Offida is one of the most charming and best-preserved medieval villages in the Marche region. Perched on a sandstone spur among the green hills of the Piceno, this town of ancient Picene origin is an open-air museum, where every corner and every stone tells stories of a glorious past.
The historic center, entirely surrounded by medieval walls, retains its 14th–15th century urban layout, with cobbled streets, noble palaces, monumental churches, and scenic viewpoints that suddenly open onto the Tesino River valley and the gentle surrounding hills.
Staying at Radici Luxury B&B near Offida will allow you to experience an authentic journey through history, culture, and enchanting landscapes.
Trésors artistiques et architecturaux
Palais communal et tour civique
Le palais communal élégant, construit au XIIIe siècle et remanié au fil des siècles, domine la place principale du village avec sa tour civique médiévale. À l'intérieur, on peut admirer la salle du conseil avec son plafond à caissons ainsi que le petit mais intéressant musée archéologique "Allevi".
Église Saint-Augustin
L'église Saint-Augustin abrite l’un des trésors artistiques les plus précieux d’Offida : le reliquaire du Miracle Eucharistique, une œuvre en argent doré réalisée en 1623, qui conserve le corporal taché de sang lié à un événement miraculeux survenu en 1273.
The Serpente Aureo Theatre
In the heart of the historic center lies the Serpente Aureo Theatre, a small 19th-century gem in neoclassical style. With its elegant façade, finely decorated interiors, and perfect acoustics, this historic theatre is the hub of Offida’s cultural life and regularly hosts performances, concerts, and events.
Santa Maria della Rocca
The symbol of Offida is undoubtedly the Church of Santa Maria della Rocca, an extraordinary example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture, built between the 13th and 14th centuries on a pre-existing Benedictine site. Constructed entirely of brick, the church stands majestically at the edge of the rocky spur on which the town is built, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills.
The austere simplicity of the exterior contrasts with the richness of the interior frescoes, creating an atmosphere of deep spirituality that enchants visitors.
The Carnival of Offida
A Unique Folk Festival in the Marche
The Carnival of Offida is one of the oldest and most engaging folkloric events in the Marche region. Every year, the village transforms into a timeless place where tradition and celebration merge into a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
The heart of the Carnival is marked by two unique rituals: the Bove Finto, a symbolic bull run through the streets, and the Vlurd, large flaming bundles carried in procession by participants to the main square.
This event is rooted in ancient farming customs and rituals, handed down through the centuries with passion and pride by the people of Offida. Taking part means immersing yourself in a shared emotional experience, where every gesture holds deep and collective meaning.
By staying at Radici Luxury B&B at the beginning of the year, you can experience this authentic tradition.
The Art of Bobbin Lace
A Centuries-Old Tradition
Offida is universally recognized as the capital of bobbin lace in the Marche region. This ancient lace-making art, passed down from mother to daughter for centuries, is not only a form of artistic expression of extraordinary beauty but also a fundamental element of Offida’s cultural identity.
Tradition holds that the art of bobbin lace was introduced by Benedictine nuns in the 15th century and then spread to all the families in the village. Even today, strolling through the historic center, it is not uncommon to see elderly women sitting on their doorsteps, skillfully weaving bobbins over the characteristic cylindrical cushion.
By staying at Radici Luxury B&B, you can easily visit the Lace Museum and discover one of the most authentic traditions of the Marche.
Nature and Landscapes
The Serpente Aureo Park
The Serpente Aureo Park is a green oasis surrounding the medieval village, offering panoramic trails among centuries-old olive trees and evocative views of the historic walls and Santa Maria della Rocca.
Hiking and Cycle-Tour Routes
The area around Offida is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking trails and cycle-tour routes weaving through vineyards, olive groves, and “calanchi” badlands, offering spectacular scenery. The “Via del Rosso Piceno Superiore” is one of the most popular routes among cyclotourists.
Radici Luxury B&B is the perfect starting point for those who love cycle touring and wish to explore the Piceno pedaling through nature.
How to Reach Offida from Radici Luxury B&B
Offida is located about 20 km from Radici Luxury B&B and is easily reachable:
- By car: Take the Ascoli–Mare expressway towards Ascoli, exit at Castel di Lama, then follow signs to Offida (approx. 25 minutes)
- By public transport: Regular bus services connect San Benedetto del Tronto to Offida
Book your stay at Radici Luxury B&B and discover Offida, one of the most beautiful villages in the Marche, amid art, traditions, and timeless landscapes.