Culture
Pesaro city of music: UNESCO, Rossini and what to see
Updated 31 October 2026. Why Pesaro is the city of music and what to see on foot from the old town, with sources.
Rossini and the UNESCO creative city
Pesaro is the birthplace of Gioachino Rossini and since 2017 it has belonged to the UNESCO Creative Cities network for music, a recognition linked to the city's work in spreading and reinterpreting his music, as reported by Avvenire (in Italian). In 2024 it was also Italian Capital of Culture, chosen in March 2022 according to AGI (in Italian).
What to see
Rossini's birthplace, in the historic centre. The Teatro Rossini, the city's historic theatre. The Rossini Opera Festival, every summer. Always check hours and tickets on the official websites: they change from season to season.
A musical walk
The Rossini sights in the centre are close together: you can visit them on foot in half a day, ending towards the sea. For the seafront walk read our seafront guide.
Staying in the historic centre
Nuovo Fiore is at Via Barignani 60, in the historic centre: the music sights are within walking distance, and for the sea there are free bikes for guests.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Pesaro called a city of music?
Because it is the birthplace of Gioachino Rossini and since 2017 it has been part of the UNESCO Creative Cities network for music.
Was Pesaro an Italian Capital of Culture?
Yes: it was chosen as Italian Capital of Culture for 2024, with a programme extended to the towns of the province.
What to see in Pesaro if you love music?
Rossini's birthplace, the Teatro Rossini and, in summer, the Rossini Opera Festival. Check hours and programmes on the official websites.
Can you do it all on foot?
Yes: Rossini's house and the theatre are in the historic centre, a few minutes' walk from each other.
How far is Nuovo Fiore from the Rossini sights?
Nuovo Fiore is at Via Barignani 60, in Pesaro's historic centre: the Rossini sights in the centre are within walking distance.
Read also: Nuovo Fiore · All guides