Overview
The Mole Vanvitelliana in Ancona takes its name from the architect Luigi Vanvitelli who designed it in the 18th century but in the city, it is also known as Lazaretto. It is a pentagonal-shaped building within the port, with a sanitary and defensive function. A kind of island connected to the mainland by three bridges while the canal that separates it from the rest of the city is called mandracchio.
After having been used for centuries as a public sanatorium, a fortification, a goods depot, a military hospital and even a sugar refinery, restoration work began in 1997, transforming the building into a privileged place for exhibitions, events and shows. Here, you will also find the Omero Tactile Museum, which gives you an unprecedented way of experiencing art. In fact, your hand is free to traverse the shapes of classical bodies, appreciating their perfection and anatomy. The route is suitable for everyone, including blind and visually impaired people.
The main points of interest are the entrance gate in Istrian stone framed by two pilasters and characterised by the use of rustication, and the Temple of San Rocco. It is a small pentagonal-shaped church located in the centre of the Lazaretto courtyard with Doric columns topped by a hexagonal coffered dome. The Mole can be visited from Tuesday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 7:15 p.m.
60123 Ancona AN, Italia
