Visit Bordonchio for a pleasant alternative to visiting the beach resorts of Rimini. Bordonchio is the oldest district of Bellaria-Igea Marina and where evidence has been found of settlements that date from the 1st century B.C. and 4th century A.D. Divide your time in Bordonchio between centuries-old churches, a striking palace and an attractive public park.
Established in 1765, the Antica Chiesa di San Martino is the Bordonchio’s dominant architectural landmark. Note the arcaded main entrance and a bell tower crowned with spires and crosses. Inside, a painting by the Emilian school decorates the altar. Attend a mass services here and at the adjacent Chiesa di San Martino, built to accommodate the village’s growing congregation.
The Via Popilia, a Roman road planned by consul Publio Popilio Lentate, once ran through the village. Archeologists have since unearthed important artifacts here such as the Egnatia Chila funerary stele. Several funerary objects are exhibited today at the Noi, Museum of History and Memory of Bellaria Igea Marina. Castello Benelli is another impressive landmark and displays aspects of a 15th-century fortified palace.
It’s easy to while an entire day amid the natural scenery of Bordonchio’s Parco del Gelso. Trails ideal for biking, running and walking wind around the park’s tree-lined lawns and placid lake. Spot ducks swimming in the water and butterflies fluttering around the flourishing vegetation. Look for models of dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals.
The lure of Rimini’s golden coastline and glistening Adriatic waters are never far away. Sun worshippers and watersports enthusiasts flock to the beaches at Bordonchio’s neighboring towns of Bellaria and Igea Marina. Search for a quiet spot or take advantage of the children’s activities, bars and restaurants at beach clubs such as Afrika Beach and Solaria Beach.
Bordonchio is less than a mile from Igea Marina train station. Fly to Rimini’s Federico Fellini International Airport and then travel by train or rent a car to reach the tranquil village.
