Montemonaco and the legend of the Sibyl

We are in one of the most mysterious mountain resorts of the Marche, close to the Sibillini Mountains, in Montemonaco. The origin of the name has its roots in the Middle Ages, when a fleeing Benedictine monk found refuge there. In the ninth century a Benedictine fortification was founded and to protect their freedom they built the castle walls interspersed with sturdy towers. We have said that it is one of the most mysterious cities of the Marche, its mystery is linked to the myth of the Sibyl. In fact, it is said that in this place lived a female doctor who had magical powers and healed the people with natural herbs. The historic center, on the other hand, is a slice of medieval life. We find the Church of San Biagio and San Benedetto, rich in works of art, such as a fresco by Crivelli; the small church of San Giovanni Battista, which houses the altarpiece of the Vergine del Soccorso by Giulio Vergari, the remains of the ancient fortress and the three towers, the work of Lombard master masons. Still, in the vicinity of Montemonaco, at the Sibilla refuge, you can climb through a path up to the cave that the legend attributes to the Sibyl.