Porta San Nicola is one of the ancient access gates to the fortified village of Poggio San Marcello, dating back to the 15th century. For a long time, it represented the only entrance to the town, guarding the access to the historic center within the medieval defensive wall. Built with solid stone structures, it integrates perfectly with the well-preserved walls, which still surround the village today and maintain its historical charm. Crossing it, visitors are welcomed into a maze of evocative alleys, among picturesque views and historic architecture that recount the long tradition of this village in the Marche region.

Also at the end of the town, near the gate, we find the civic tower with the public clock built by Pietro Mei of Montecarotto in 1848 and authenticated as his work number 20, on the bronze toothed wheel.

On the external wall of the Clock Tower, beneath the East-facing dial, we find a small terracotta plaque that records the construction of the castle gate under the pontificate of Callixtus III (1455). At that time, measures were taken to make entry to the castle difficult; a militarily guarded gate was built for entering and exiting the settlement located on the summit of the Podjum (a steep access ramp to the gate), thus making it possible to control the people at the entrance. The Podjum was built by the Feudal Bishop of Jesi, Grimoaldo, between 1199 and 1207, and was subsequently restructured with the construction of the gate.

To the right of the entrance gate of the Village, stands the old Oratory of 1450 (The Crypt), which initially served as the provisional parish church before the construction of the Church of San Nicolò.