Malatesta fortress - fortress of Mondavio - Costanza fortress The castles in the immediate vicinity of Fano provide a fascinating itinerary. The first stop is Fano itself, to see the 15th Century Rocca Malatestiana, a splendid castle built by the Malatesta family who ruled this area. This strategic outpost guarded the coastline and acted as a landmark for ships sailing along the Adriatic Sea. The last great event in its history occurred in 1848, when Garibaldi stayed here on his march from the north towards Rome. The pretty Renaissance town of Mondavio, originally Mons Avium, is dominated by the superb Rocca Roveresca, the work of Francesco di Giorgio Martini. In mid-August the castle is the scene of historical re-enactments culminating in Renaissance banquets and a wild boar hunt. Another stopping place along our tour is Pesaro, to see the Rocca Costanza. Built along the eastern wall of the city, the castle has survived intact since its constructed in 1474, to a design by Luciano Laurana. Another interesting castle, not far from Pesaro, is the 10th century Ginestreto Castle, standing in countryside which has changed little over the centuries, among banks of yellow broom.