Cesenatico is a seaside town located on the northeast coast of Italy in the Emilia-Romagna region, between Rimini and Ravena. It attracts visitors especially with its beautiful beaches, historical monuments and friendly atmosphere.
History of Cesenatica
Cesenatico has a rich history that dates back to Roman times. The town was originally a fishing village and port designed by the famous Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci. His design of the canal, which still runs through the town, still serves as the central feature of the town and reflects his exceptional engineering skills.
Leonardo da Vinci's canal
One of Cesenatico's greatest attractions is its canal (Porto Canale), designed by Leonardo da Vinci in 1502 at the request of Cesare Borgia. This canal is now the heart of the town and around it are many restaurants, cafes and shops. In the evening, its banks turn into a romantic strolling place where you can admire the beautifully lit boats and ancient buildings.
Along the Porto Canale there are houses known as "case dei pescatori" or fishermen's cottages, an authentic insight into the life of local fishermen and their families in past centuries.mostly two-storey buildings with small rooms, they were designed to meet the needs of the fishermen's families, whose lives revolved around fishing and daily work at sea. The ground floor of these houses was often used as storage space for fishing tackle, nets and other equipment, while the upper floor served as living space.visiting these houses, whether converted into restaurants or preserved as historic buildings today, offers a unique insight into life in this small Italian town.
Boat Museum
Along the canal there is also a unique open-air museum, the Museo della Marineria, which showcases a collection of traditional fishing boats from the region. These boats are carefully restored and displayed on the water, providing a unique insight into the maritime history of Cesenatico and its fishing traditions.
Beaches and natural beauty
Cesenatico is famous for its long sandy beaches that stretch along the Adriatic coast. The beaches are well equipped and offer a wide range of services and activities, from sunbeds and umbrellas to beach bars, sports facilities and children's playgrounds. The water is clean and shallow, making Cesenatico a truly ideal place for families with children.
Gastronomy
The local restaurants and trattorias offer a wide selection of fresh seafood, pasta, pizzas and other traditional dishes. One of the most famous dishes is piadina, a traditional flat bread stuffed with ham, cheese or vegetables, typical of the Emilia-Romagna region.
Culture and festivals
Cesenatico is also a town full of culture and tradition. Throughout the year there are festivals and events that attract tourists from all over Europe. Among the most important are the Festa di Garibaldi, which celebrates the Italian hero Giuseppe Garibaldi, and the Festa della Madonna del Mare, a religious festival in honour of the Virgin Mary, patron saint of sailors.
Cesenatico as a starting point
Thanks to its strategic location, Cesenatico is the ideal starting point for discovering the other beauties of Emilia-Romagna. Nearby are historic towns such as Ravenna, famous for its magnificent mosaics, or Rimini, which offers a rich nightlife and ancient monuments.
