The Marches of Ancona is named as the intended destination of Cecco Angiolieri’s journey to seek the help of a powerful patron. The tale makes the region significant not through a narrated visit, but as the place where Angiolieri hopes to change his fortunes.

The Cardinal’s Presence

A cardinal described as a great patron of Angiolieri has arrived in the Marches of Ancona as the Pope’s legate. His presence there gives Angiolieri a reason to leave Siena: Angiolieri believes that reaching the cardinal may improve the difficult circumstances of his life.

A Journey Not Yet Completed

Before setting out, Angiolieri arranges to receive from his father the provision intended for the next six months, so that he can equip himself with clothes and a horse and make a respectable appearance. He also agrees to take Fortarrigo along as a servant, despite knowing his companion’s habits of gambling and drinking. The two begin their journey and dine at Buonconvento, but the episode’s action turns on Fortarrigo’s conduct there; the text establishes the Marches as Angiolieri’s intended destination, not as a place the pair is shown reaching.