The beauty of Le Marche is one of Italy's best kept secrets and the ancient town of Cagli is one of the region's most enchanting corners. It became a Roman town in 295 BC, and under the Byzantines, in the 5th century, its strategic importance along the Via Flaminia was such that it formed part of a pentapolis, or five-city alliance, together with Jesi, Fossombrone, Urbino and Gubbio. Still today it retains its Roman grid plan, all roads leading to a proper central square with a florid fountain, a steely medieval town hall, and huddles of old men deep in gossip. Hidden from tourists among the Apennines mountains in the Marche Region of central Italy, Cagli offers a unique opportunity to explore authentic Italian life. |