The surroundings

Significant transformations have also affected the hamlets of Savignano Monte Tassi, the scattered settlements throughout the area—including those of Ca' Secco and San Donato—and the hamlet of Montelicciano, which is becoming increasingly populated and important due to its position along the provincial road that leads from Cattolica to the neighboring Republic of San Marino. Around the historic center, after the Second World War, the old country houses almost completely disappeared: some were rebuilt from the ground up, others were transformed so extensively that they became something else entirely, and many slowly but inevitably vanished year after year. Those that remain, now in ruins, will unfortunately suffer the same fate, such as the “Combarbio” on the hill to the right of the Conca Stream, the houses of “San Leo” near Monte Tassi, and those of “Ca' Pesatore” on the hill above the solitary little church of Soripe.

Today, the main town is characterized by small modern neighborhoods made up of villas, guesthouses, and hotels—some of which have been converted into residences. Internal roads have multiplied, and pedestrian paths are being set up leading to the thermal baths and the cemetery. Significant transformations have also affected the hamlets of Savignano Monte Tassi, the scattered settlements throughout the territory—including those of Ca' Secco and San Donato—and the hamlet of Montelicciano, which is becoming increasingly populated and important due to its location along the provincial road from Cattolica to the bordering Republic of San Marino.

Very few historical vestiges remain in these areas, but those of Monte Tassi are noteworthy. Once a fortified castle, it is now a panoramic viewpoint shaded by the ancient parish church of St. John the Evangelist. The elevation rises from just over 200 meters along the Conca River to the 864-meter summit of Mount San Paolo, the solitary height facing the city of San Marino, characterized by grazing cattle and flocks, shaded woods, and pine forests, and toward which the entire municipal territory converges.

On clear days, the view from here stretches across the whole coastline, from Cesenatico to Pesaro, and from the Tuscan–Umbrian–Marchigiano Apennines to Urbino, Montefiore Conca, and Gradara. The rest consists of the typical hills of Montefeltro, characterized by valleys and heights, each with its own distinct features. In this area they are literally covered in greenery—woods, wild hedges, and gardens. A flora that almost protects and encloses the numerous small inhabited clusters and scattered houses. Here you will find some modern farms, mainly cattle farms, many of which move their livestock to the high pastures during the good season.

The Springs

Numerous water springs—almost always drinkable—are found on every slope, both in the valleys and the hills. Naturally, the springs used in the thermal establishment have medicinal properties that make them suitable for specific treatments. The local fauna is also noteworthy: not by chance, several wildlife-hunting farms exist in the area, attracting both hunters and those interested in environmental wildlife. In particular, on Mount San Paolo, it is possible to meet and talk with some operators in the sector. Species such as partridges, pheasants, and hares still exist and are part of repopulation efforts, and in addition to these animals, many bird species live here in abundance. At dusk, the nightingale makes its home here, singing alongside crickets and other animals that are rare or have disappeared elsewhere.

As for the historical environment, ancient farmhouses still survive—though some are in ruins and have been replaced with modern houses and villas—but above all, a series of small and characteristic settlements remain, always rebuilt on ancient medieval foundations or carefully restored through craftsmanship.

Source: Municipality of Monte Grimano Terme