Information Gatteo Mare

The origins of Gatteo Mare date back to the Roman Age, as evidenced by the precious finds which have recently been unearthed in the surrounding area. Impressive remains dating back to the II century bear witness to the important role the city played during the Middle Ages. Situated just in the heart of a marshy district, Gatteo Mare was scarcely inhabited until extensive reclamation works were carried out in the IX century, when the city began flourishing.

In the XIII and XIV centuries, Gatteo Mare became an important city republic and, under the rule of the Malatesta Family, it was extensively fortified to resist external attacks.

The boundaries between Gatteo and Cesenatico were marked out in the first half of 1400, after the municipality had been acquired by the Papal States and then taken over by Guidi di Bagno Counts.

In 1500, Gatteo Mare was included in the Dukedom of Romagna, but was subsequently taken over by the Venetians, who gave it to the Guidi Family again; the latter ruled Gatteo Mare up to 1656, when it was finally acquired by the Papal States. During the Middle Ages Gatteo Mare achieved utmost splendour, as evidenced by the buildings and monuments which date back to that period: not to be missed are the Oratory of St. Rocco, the Church of St. Anthony the Abbot, the ancient Castle, the Church of St. Lorenzo and the bell tower of St. Anthony the Abbot.