Ecomuseo della Valle dell'Aso

Moresco Castle stands on the top of a hill in a strategic position, controlling the Aso Valley. Its origins are shrouded in mystery: although little is known with certainty, the presence of important Roman settlements in the area is documented, followed in Lombard times by monastic and feudal curtes and castra. One of these fortified centers asserted itself over the others, becoming the main place of residence for the scattered population.
The etymology of the name “Moresco” remains uncertain: it could derive from a lord named Morico, from the Moorish family, or from the term “morro” or “morrecine,” indicating a stony place.
The earliest historical records of the castle date back to 1083. The regency of Count Tebaldo is recorded in the 12th century, while in the following century the castle came into the orbit of the city of Fermo: first at the behest of Frederick II, then King Manfred, and finally, in 1266, with the sale of the fortress by the local lords to Lorenzo Tiepolo, doge of Venice and podestà of Fermo. From that time, Moresco remained under Fermo control until the Unification of Italy.
The village, completely surrounded by walls, has a characteristic triangular shape culminating in the majestic Heptagonal Tower, built in the 12th century, the undisputed symbol of the village. The other tower, known as the Clock Tower, towers above the ancient entrance gate to the castle and is flanked by a fine Renaissance portico. A third tower, which once existed, is now no longer visible, as is the church inside the castle, Santa Maria in Castro, of which only the left aisle remains, enriching the present square thanks in part to the fresco of the “Madonna and Child” by painter Vincenzo Pagani.
The other churches are located mostly outside the walls. Particularly interesting is the Church of Our Lady of the Elm, inside which is a shrine frescoed by Pagani, which subdivides the sacred environment in an original way. Also not to be missed is the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Salute, deeply venerated by the local community.
Since 2001 Moresco has been counted among the founding municipalities of the prestigious club “I Borghi più Belli d’Italia,” promoted by ANCI to protect and enhance the small hidden gems of Italian heritage.