Piazza Nuova

Piazza Nuova is a scenic viewpoint in the heart of the old town of Numana, a small resort on the Riviera del Conero in Italy's Marche region. Built as a panoramic terrace during the twentieth century, it has become one of the town's favourite gathering spots for locals and visitors alike.

What can you see from the terrace?

The view from Piazza Nuova sweeps across the marina below and the beaches that line the Riviera del Conero, with the bulk of Monte Conero rising in the background. It's this combination — boats in the harbour, the curve of the coast, and the sea beyond — that keeps people coming back at every hour of the day, from morning coffee to sunset.

The square itself is modest in size but has a few distinctive features. At its centre sits a small fountain with goldfish, surrounded by light landscaping. The most eye-catching element, though, is a large modern metal cross that dominates the space and can be spotted from a distance. Right at the edge of the lookout stands the bright red "Panchina dell'Amore" — the Love Bench — a popular spot for a quick photo before moving on.

How do you get to Piazza Nuova?

The square is only a few minutes' walk from the town hall and from Numana's main square, Piazza del Santuario, so it fits naturally into any stroll through the historic centre. Travellers relying on public transport can reach the area via local bus routes connecting the town centre with the harbour.

A path leads directly down from Piazza Nuova to the beach, taking around five minutes on foot. That makes it easy to combine a walk through the old town with an afternoon by the water, without needing separate transport between the two.

When is the best time to visit?

Numana and the Riviera del Conero are busiest in summer, when the beaches fill up and the weather invites a swim. That's also when Piazza Nuova sees the most visitors, especially in the evening as the sun sets over the sea. Travellers who prefer a quieter experience can visit in spring or early autumn, when the coastal view is just as striking but the crowds thin out considerably.

Whatever the season, it's worth building in a short stop here while exploring the old town. The visit itself doesn't take long, but it captures what makes Numana distinctive: a small, picturesque town perched above the Adriatic.

Frequently asked questions

What is Piazza Nuova in Numana? It's a panoramic viewpoint in the historic centre of Numana, built during the twentieth century, offering views over the harbour and the beaches of the Riviera del Conero.

How long does it take to walk from Piazza Nuova to the beach? A path leads directly down from the square to the beach and takes about five minutes on foot.

Is Piazza Nuova close to the centre of Numana? Yes, it's just a few minutes' walk from the town hall and from Numana's main square, Piazza del Santuario.

What are the main things to see on the square itself? Look for the large metal cross, a small fountain with goldfish, and the red Love Bench (Panchina dell'Amore) at the edge of the lookout.