Greccio Travel Guide: Unveiling Italy’s Medieval Gem in the Heart of Nature
Perched 750 meters over sea level on the slopes of Monte Lacerone, it provides an idyllic panorama of the Rieti plain and is embraced by oak and fern forests, contributing to its lovely atmosphere. Greccio is conveniently located adjacent to many major cities, including Rieti (15 km away), Rome (90 km), and L’Aquila (70 km).
A Glimpse into Greccio’s Enchanting History
Myth has it that a colony of Greeks fleeing persecution back home settled in this picturesque and strategically advantageous location and named it Greccio. Legend has it that the settlement was formed by Greek refugees who were drawn here by the area’s natural beauty and sense of security. Because of this, the name Grecia emerged, evolving becoming Grece, then Grecce, and eventually Greccio.
The Medieval Times and Saint Francis of Assisi
Frederick II of Swabia’s forces demolished the medieval castrum in 1242 during their failed effort to take Rieti in their fight against the Holy See. A couple decades later, in 1799, Napoleon’s army caused much more destruction to the town. The current town of Greccio still has the traditional layout of a medieval stronghold and the remnants of a castle built in the 11th century.
Saint Francis of Assisi and the First Live Nativity
Saint Francis of Assisi stands out in the history of Greccio; he is credited with constructing the first ever live Nativity scene in the town with the aid of the ruler of Greccio, Messer Giovanni Velita, on Christmas Eve, 1223. The little mountain town of Greccio, Italy, a symbol of Franciscan ideals, was transformed by this momentous event. Since 1972, the portrayal of the Living Nativity has continued yearly, for which Greccio is recognized across the globe.
Exploring Greccio’s Architectural Marvels
Visit the Bell Tower, constructed in the 17th century on the foundations of one of the six ancient medieval towers, and the nearby Church of San Michael the Archangel, both located in Greccio’s precious historic center, which dates back to the 16th century. The Baroque S. Maria del Giglio Church may be found on the way down to the main plaza.
The Franciscan Bethlehem and Museums of Faith
Francis of Assisi created four sanctuaries, but the “Franciscan Bethlehem” is the one you must see. You can see the cell the saint prayed in and the priceless wooden choir he used to sing in when he resided here. The Nativity Scene Museum, housed in a structure constructed following the recovery of S. Maria Church from the thirteenth century, is another must-see for tourists. The Museum of Nativity Scenes takes visitors on a winding tour through the historic center’s residences, which have been transformed into open-air canvases owing to the 26 works by worldwide artists who were moved by the life and teachings of Francis of Assisi.
Trekking Through Nature’s Masterpiece
Naturalistic itineraries abound in the splendid landscapes that wind from Greccio, and are a popular choice among hikers. One such route is the Path of Francis, which follows the route taken by Francis of Assisi through the Holy Valley. The path to the legendary Fonte Lupetta, where Francesco is said to have tamed a wolf with the use of the diuretic water, is just as evocative. In the winter, those who are more active may go alpine skiing in the mountains that surround the town.
Celebrating History and Tradition in Greccio
The Days of Velita are a medieval celebration of great importance to learn more about the community and its history. Saint Francis’s close friend and ruler of Greccio, Giovanni Velita, was there when the saint created the first Living Nativity Scene. From July 17-20, the town of Greccio and its guests will be transported back in time to the Middle Ages with the help of re-creations of medieval dishes.
Culinary Festivals and Christmas Markets
The festival of Franciscan first courses is held annually in the winter on December 13 and 14, giving people the chance to sample food prepared with the humble but delicious ingredients favored by Francesco. A Christmas market, or an exposition of crafts and pieces for the nativity scene, takes place in Greccio every year during the holiday season, giving visitors a chance to learn about local craftsmanship and other customs whose purpose is the nativity scene, of which Greccio is the emblem. And course, the live nativity scene is enacted just after Christmas.
Arriving at Greccio: Gateway to a Medieval World
Where do I fly into to see the natural and cultural wonders of Greccio? Follow the signs for Greccio-Rieti if you’re driving in from the north, then get off the A1 Florence-Rome freeway at the Orte toll booth for Terni or the Rome-North barrier. To get to Rome Nord from the south, get off the A1 Naples-Rome at the Florence-Rome Nord exit. Greccio, perched on the Sabine Mountains’ rocky outcrops, is well worth the three-kilometer hike to reach it from the provincial road leading to Terni.
