Ancona is full of statues and monuments that tell stories of war, politics, faith and everyday life.
This guide to the best statues and monuments in Ancona focuses on six must-see spots: the Passetto War Memorial, the statues of Cavour, Trajan and Pope Clement XII, and the monuments to Stamira and Pinocchio.
Passetto War Memorial
The Passetto War Memorial stands in Piazza IV Novembre, in the Passetto district, at the end of Viale della Vittoria.
Designed by architect Guido Cirilli in the early 1930s, it is a circular temple in Istrian stone with eight columns, overlooking the sea and connected to the beach by a monumental staircase.
Today it is both a symbol of remembrance and one of the most scenic viewpoints in Ancona.
Cavour statue (Piazza Cavour)
In the centre of Piazza Cavour you will find the marble monument to Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour, created by sculptor Aristodemo Costoli and inaugurated in 1868.
The statue shows Cavour standing, with reliefs on the base recalling key moments of his political career, in the middle of one of Ancona’s main tree-lined squares.
Trajan statue
The Trajan statue stands at the beginning of Via XXIX Settembre, overlooking the historic port docks of Ancona.
This bronze sculpture celebrates the link between the emperor and the city, recalling the Roman era port expansion and strengthening works.
Its waterfront location makes it perfect to combine with a walk towards the Arch of Trajan and the historic centre.
Clement XII statue (Piazza del Plebiscito)
The statue of Pope Clement XII dominates the upper side of Piazza del Plebiscito, which is also nicknamed “Piazza del Papa” because of this monument.
Carved in marble by Agostino Cornacchini in the 18th century, it celebrates the pope who supported major works on Ancona’s harbour and urban layout, becoming a symbol of the city’s bond with the Papal States.
Stamira statue
The monument to Stamira stands in the square that bears her name, along Corso Stamira, and is a bronze sculpture created by artist Guido Armeni in 2005.
It represents Stamira, a 12th-century heroine of Ancona who, according to tradition, sacrificed her life to set fire to enemy siege engines, and today she is remembered as a symbol of courage and freedom.
Pinocchio monument
The monument to Pinocchio, inaugurated in 1954 and designed by sculptor Vittorio Morelli, is located in the small area known as “Pinocchio square”.
The bronze statue shows Pinocchio with his school satchel, standing on a book-shaped base with inscriptions, and it has become a beloved place for children and locals of all ages.
Suggested internal links
Inside the text you can add:
- “Also see our guides to Ancona squares and Ancona fountains.”
- “For green areas and viewpoints, check parks in Ancona and best viewpoints in Ancona.”
FAQ
What are the most important monuments in Ancona?
The most important ones include the Passetto War Memorial, the statues of Cavour, Trajan and Clement XII, plus the monuments to Stamira and Pinocchio.
Where is the War Memorial in Ancona?
The War Memorial is in Piazza IV Novembre, in the Passetto area, at the end of Viale della Vittoria, directly overlooking the sea.
Can I see all these monuments in one walking tour?
Yes, with a walk between the historic centre, the harbour and the Passetto district you can include all these statues and monuments in a single itinerary.