Rimini is both an ancient and new town that is full of traces of its important past. Founded by the Romans in the year 268 BC, it became an epicentre of culture and art under the rule of the Malatesta family, around the end of the 13th century,. The town has two lively, pulsing hearts: the old part of the town centre, with its boroughs, and the seaside, with no less than 15 km of beaches that have attracted tourists from all over Europe since the beginning of the 1900s.

THE MALATESTA TEMPLE
Among the best-known monuments, this location is a must to really get to know the town of Rimini. Commissioned by Sigismondo Malatesta and designed by Leon Battista Alberti, although left unfinished, it is an important evidence of the Renaissance period. The Church hosts two masterpieces of Italian art: the first version of Giotto’s crucifix, at the altar, and (in the last chapel on the right) the famous fresco by Piero della Francesca showing Sigismondo Malatesta before Saint Sigismondo.

TIBERIUS BRIDGE
This impressive bridge was built over the river Marecchia following a decree by the Emperor Augustus and completed under his successor, Tiberius. Entirely built in Istrian stone, with five arches, in Doric style, it is one of the most remarkable surviving Roman bridges. The bridge indicates the beginning of the Aemilian road and it stands at the end of the town’s main street (Corso d'Augusto).

ARCH OF AUGUSTUS
Built in 27 BC in honour of Octavian Augustus Caesar, it is the oldest of the surviving Roman arches and stands at the meeting point of the Flaminian and the Aemilian roads .Built in Istrian stone, the arch Augustus was recently restored to its ancient splendour.

PIAZZA CAVOUR
The town’s main meeting point is the central Piazza Cavour, which is overlooked by Palazzo dell’Arengo, Palazzo del Podestà (headquarters of the town council), the Old Fish Market and the Galli Theatre; in the centre of the square, there is the suggestive “Pigna” fountain, which, following in-depth restoration, is again functioning.

SIGISMONDO CASTLE
Sigismondo Malatesta had a castle built in the town, of which only the central nucleus remains. Designed as both a palace and a fortress, it had to show the greatness and power of its owner. The castle was strategically positioned, as the wall of the town passed there and the town itself could be easily controlled. Sigismondo Castle, now restored and open to the public, is used as an exhibition venue and hosts important exhibitions and cultural events at an international level.