Although I tend to avoid enclosed, dark spaces, I think the Frasassi Cave is one of the places to visit in Italy. In about one hour of easy drive from Ancona you can reach the spectacular regional park of Gola della Rossa where the caves are located. The area is one of the stunning tourist attractions in Italy. It is home to a variety of wild animals. Eagles, peregrine falcon, owls, kingfisher, bats and porcupines just to name a few, populate the area.
Next to the church is a spa center that utilizes the properties of the local sulfurous waters to treat skin and respiratory ailments. This cave system was first discovered in 1948 by a local farmer named Boldrini but the area was systematically explored only in 1971 when the Gruppo Speleologico Marchigiano di Ancona discovered the entrance to La Grotta Grande del Vento. In the following years more galleries and caves were discovered and now the system is estimated to be the most extensive in Europe. 
The tourist tour lasts 75 minutes and will take you through the rooms lit by scenic lights with an easy walking trail. The temperature is constantly at 14 C so it is advisable to bring along a jacket also in summer.
Photo courtesy of Kessiye If spelunking makes you hungry, we suggest you visit le copertelle in the nearby village of Serra San Quirico. Copertelle are covered streets built in the defense city walls. In this strategic position are located some of the best restaurants of the region where you can sample excellent local foods and wines while enjoying a scenic view.
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