Throughout the 1500 the town was a busy one as it was part of the Bologna-Ancona-Rome pilgrimage route for those headed to Rome. Although now more of a fishing town, this was only a recent addition to the town’s economy during the 19^th century. It was the brother of Napoleon Bonaparte, Lucien who first visited the shores of this sleepy little town and preferred it in comparison to Ramini and soon after it became its own independent commune.

It was not until the end of World War I that Cattolica would become part of the tourist industry. Many people from all over Europe started to find their way to the shores of this town to relax and take in the atmosphere. Since that time although the fishing industry has grown substantially, it is the tourist industry that has truly boomed.

Today many people from all over Europe flock to Cattolica for its quietness and of course to see the sights. Of the many things to see in Cattolica, the 13^th century Church of San Apollinare and the 14^th century Malatesta tower are among the more popular stops. There is also the Museum of the Queen which features the S. Croce Gallery that can date back to the 16^th century as well as Aquarius "Le Navi" and the Watchtower which is now part of a local disco.