Rieti
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The city of Rieti is the capital city of the Province of Rieti with a population of 47,149 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 405 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 206 km² and lies 80 kilometres north east of Rome, the capital city of Lazio. The main sights of Rieti include its cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta), its city walls and the Ponte Romano bridge. The city's Piazza San Rufo is considered the exact centre of Italy. |
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The main square in Rieti is Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II and from here you can easily reach the main sights on foot. Local buses are available to reach the smaller towns in the local area while the city also has a train station, located a 7 minute walk from the centre, around 500 metres away.
Related links
Rieti • Lazio • Historic City and Provincial Capital
Rieti is a historic city located in the Lazio region, in central Italy, nestled at the foot of the Apennine Mountains. It lies in the Rieti Valley, surrounded by lush, fertile land and scenic hills, making it a picturesque spot with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The city’s location provides a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, offering visitors a chance to explore both its rich heritage and its natural landscapes.
The historic centre of Rieti is a charming mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture, with narrow, cobbled streets, ancient squares, and notable landmarks. The Cathedral of Santa Maria, with its beautiful artwork and architectural features, is a focal point in the city. Rieti is also known for its Roman heritage, with remnants of ancient walls and the impressive Palazzo Vescovile adding to its cultural appeal. The city’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by local cafés, markets, and traditional shops, creating a pleasant environment for visitors to stroll and enjoy the surroundings.
Nearby, the Sabine Mountains offer numerous outdoor activities, including hiking and nature walks, with scenic views across the valley. The town of Greccio, known for its religious significance and connection to St. Francis of Assisi, is just a short drive away. The picturesque village of Cittaducale, with its medieval structures, is also close by. For nature lovers, the nearby Lago del Salto provides a peaceful retreat, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and relaxation. Rieti, with its mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, serves as an excellent base for exploring the Lazio region.
The historic centre of Rieti is a charming mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture, with narrow, cobbled streets, ancient squares, and notable landmarks. The Cathedral of Santa Maria, with its beautiful artwork and architectural features, is a focal point in the city. Rieti is also known for its Roman heritage, with remnants of ancient walls and the impressive Palazzo Vescovile adding to its cultural appeal. The city’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by local cafés, markets, and traditional shops, creating a pleasant environment for visitors to stroll and enjoy the surroundings.
Nearby, the Sabine Mountains offer numerous outdoor activities, including hiking and nature walks, with scenic views across the valley. The town of Greccio, known for its religious significance and connection to St. Francis of Assisi, is just a short drive away. The picturesque village of Cittaducale, with its medieval structures, is also close by. For nature lovers, the nearby Lago del Salto provides a peaceful retreat, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and relaxation. Rieti, with its mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, serves as an excellent base for exploring the Lazio region.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II: The heart of Rieti, this picturesque square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Palazzo Comunale and the Palazzo del Governo. The central fountain and charming cafes create a vibrant atmosphere.
- Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta: The Duomo di Rieti is an impressive Romanesque-Gothic cathedral with a beautiful façade adorned with sculptures. Inside, visitors can admire valuable artworks and religious relics.
- Palazzo Vescovile: The Bishop's Palace, adjacent to the cathedral, is a fine example of Renaissance architecture and now serves as a museum showcasing religious artifacts and historical documents.
- Fontana dei Delfini: This elegant Baroque fountain, located in Piazza San Rufo, features dolphin sculptures and is a popular spot for locals and tourists to gather.
- Rieti Underground: Beneath the streets of Rieti lies a network of ancient underground passages and chambers known as "Rieti Sotterranea." Guided tours offer visitors a unique insight into the town's hidden history.
- The Marmore Waterfalls: Just outside of Rieti, visitors can explore the magnificent Marmore Falls, one of Italy's highest waterfalls. Surrounded by lush greenery, the falls offer breathtaking views and walking trails.
- Palazzo Vecchiarelli: This historical palace houses the Civic Museum, where visitors can learn more about Rieti's art, culture, and archaeological heritage.
- Local Cuisine: Rieti is renowned for its culinary delights, including the traditional porchetta (roast pork), cheeses, and pasta dishes. The town's restaurants and trattorias offer a chance to savor these local specialties.
- Events and Festivals: Rieti hosts various cultural events and religious festivals throughout the year, providing an opportunity to experience the town's traditions and vibrant atmosphere.
Comune di Rieti
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Province Rieti
Region: Lazio Population: 45,273 (in 2024 - source) Size: 206 km² Elevation: 405 metres Highlights: Rieti Cathedral, Ponte Romano, city walls Close by: Rieti Valley, Greccio, Castel di Tora, Lake Turano, Foglia |
My recommended accommodation options for Rieti:
- Park Hotel Villa Potenziani Situated atop a hill overlooking Rieti, this 4-star hotel is set within a historic villa surrounded by a private park. Guests appreciate the elegant rooms, outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and the tranquil setting just a short drive from the city centre. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Cavour Located along the Velino River, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with classic décor. Visitors enjoy the on-site restaurant serving local cuisine, the proximity to Rieti's historic centre, and the scenic river views. €€ (mid-range)
- Grande Albergo Quattro Stagioni Set in a 19th-century building in Rieti’s historic centre, this hotel features elegantly furnished rooms with modern amenities. Guests value the central location, the rich buffet breakfast, and the historic ambiance of the property. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Serena This hotel offers comfortable accommodations with modern furnishings. Guests appreciate the friendly staff, the daily breakfast buffet, and the hotel's location within walking distance of Rieti's main attractions. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Miramonti Palazzo Storico Located in the heart of Rieti, this historic hotel provides rooms with traditional décor and modern comforts. Visitors enjoy the on-site restaurant, the convenient location near shops and cafés, and the hotel's historic charm. €€ (mid-range)
Rieti Gallery
Rieti Travel
By train you can reach Rome Tiburtina station in just under two hours and the same train includes stops along the way in Terni (Umbria) and Lazio's hill town of Orte.
By car you can reach Rome in 1 hour 26 minutes (80 km) or the fellow provincial capitals as follows: Viterbo - 1 hr 16 minutes (93 km), Frosinone - 1 hour 47 minutes (147 km) or Latina in 2 hours 8 minutes (161 km).
The two most convenient airports for Rieti are Rome Fiumicino and Rome Ciampino; in terms of journey time there's nothing between them, both are reachable in an hour and 25 minutes but Ciampino is the slightly closer of the two geographically: 94 kilometres away.
By car you can reach Rome in 1 hour 26 minutes (80 km) or the fellow provincial capitals as follows: Viterbo - 1 hr 16 minutes (93 km), Frosinone - 1 hour 47 minutes (147 km) or Latina in 2 hours 8 minutes (161 km).
The two most convenient airports for Rieti are Rome Fiumicino and Rome Ciampino; in terms of journey time there's nothing between them, both are reachable in an hour and 25 minutes but Ciampino is the slightly closer of the two geographically: 94 kilometres away.
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By car: Viterbo - 1 hr 16 mins (93 km), Rome - 1 hr 29 mins (80 km)
Fly to: Rome Ciampino 1 hr 23 mins, Rome Fiumicino - 1 hr 24 mins |
