Greccio, Medieval commune in Province of Rieti, Italy.
Description
Greccio is a medieval commune in the Province of Rieti perched at 705 meters on a mountain spur with views across the Rieti Valley. The settlement spreads across the sloping terrain with narrow lanes and ancient stone buildings that have retained their medieval character.
History
The area developed into a mountain village during the Middle Ages, with a settlement positioned strategically on its hilltop. Saint Francis of Assisi created the first living Nativity scene here in December 1223, an event that sparked a tradition spreading across the Christian world.
Culture
The International Museum of the Crib displays Nativity scenes gathered from around the world, showing how different cultures interpret and present this religious tradition. The collection reveals how people everywhere adapt this practice to their own customs and artistic styles.
Practical
The town is best reached by bus from Rome to Rieti using regional connections, then by a local route to Greccio. Multiple daily departures make it easy to plan a day trip or stay longer in the area.
Did you know?
The village maintains an official partnership agreement with Bethlehem, underscoring its distinctive place in Christian history. This connection brings together people who share the spiritual heritage linking this small Italian town to the Holy Land.
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Sanctuary of Greccio
1.3 km
San Pastore
2.3 km
Ciclovia della Conca Reatina
6.6 km
San Michele Arcangelo
4.8 kmSant'Antonio, Contigliano
4.8 kmSan Lorenzo
5.6 km
Il Borgo di Greccio
612 m
Santa Maria dei Prati
4.7 kmFontana
4.7 kmTorre di Morro Vecchio
5.4 kmLago di Ventina
6.5 kmLaghi Lungo e Ripasottile
6.6 km
Castello
614 mPiani di Ruschio (Stroncone)
3.1 kmLecceta del Convento Francescano di Greccio
1.7 kmSorella Morte
1.3 kmIl Presepe di San Francesco
577 mS. Francesco cerca la solitudine fra le montagne
578 mIl Cantico delle Creature
544 mSorella Morte
1.3 kmMural, Work of art
535 mWork of art, sculpture
572 mTile, Work of art
1.3 kmScenic viewpoint
1.3 kmScenic viewpoint
4.7 kmScenic viewpoint
4.8 kmCime di Macchialunga
5.2 kmWaterfall
5.9 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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