Built around the 11th - 12th Century on the remains of two previous churches, the Church of Santa Maria della Piazza ( Saint Mary of the Square ) represents a token of Medieval Ancona. Originally called church of Santa Maria del Canneto (literally Saint Mary of the cane-brake ) because it was located in a marshy area, the church was later named Santa Maria del Mercato as the weekly town market took place in the square directly in front of it.

The transition from a consular magistracy to a Podesta magistracy put the little square in prime position as it witnessed the appointment of the Podesta, a cerimonythat took place before the people. The Church is a jewel of Romanesque architecture: with a rectangular plan, in the form of Latin cross, it is divided up into a nave and two aisles. Steps lead to a raised altar.

The belfry had once a strategic function, since it was a tower saddled against the fortification that was connected to the hill behind it. The portal is embellished with ornaments and stands out for the fine combination of small arcades and pillars. The restoration work in 1980 carried out by the Archeological office brought to light th remains of the two pre-existing basilicas as well as the ruins of Greek walls dating back to the 4th Century BC.

Location: along Via della Loggia.
Visits: free admission and entrance. For guided tours: 071.52.668