Springs of the Farfa at Frasso Sabino: the white river mentioned by Ovid in the Metamorphoses
The source of the river Farfa is near the springs known as "Le Capore," in the municipality of Frasso Sabino. It is one of the most important tributaries of the river Tiber from the Rieti area, with a nearly torrential flow. Ovid mentions it in the Metamorphoses under the name Farfarus.
A stream that turns almost white
The riverbed consists of pebbles, which keep the water particularly cold even when it's very hot. When the current is strong, the water fills with foam, and takes on an almost white colour. It looks like milk. This isn't a figure of speech: the frothiness created by the force of the flow over the pebbles truly produces that effect.
Swimming in summer
The wide, pebbly banks and the cool water have made the Farfa springs a well-known bathing spot throughout the Sabina region. In summer it's the perfect place to escape the heat and relax.
How to get there and practical information
The springs are located in the municipality of Frasso Sabino, in the province of Rieti. The best period for swimming is from June to September.