Recanati is a comune in the province of Macerata, in the Italian region of Marche. Recanati was founded around 1150 AD from three pre-existing castles. In 1290 it proclaimed itself an independent republic and, in the 15th century, was famous for its international fair. In March 1798 it was conquered by Napoleon. The elongated historic center extends from one end to the other for over 200 metres and occupies an area of about 35 hectares.