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Medieval Village of Greccio: the castrum overlooking the Holy Valley
The medieval village of Greccio sits at an altitude of 705 metres on a rocky bastion on the slopes of Monte Lacerone, overlooking the Valle Santa (Holy Valley) near Rieti. It preserves the layout of a medieval castrum, complete with walls, towers, and a castle at its highest point.
From fortress to village
The first records of battles with neighbouring communities date back to the 11th century, the founding period of the castrum Greciae. Around 1100, the village experienced a growth in population due to people coming from Rocca Alatri. In 1242, it was destroyed by the troops of Frederick II of Swabia. A second major plundering occurred in 1799 at the hands of Napoleonic forces. The current name "Greccio" first appeared around 1720.
What remains today
Surviving elements of the original defensive system include the ruins of the 11th-century castle and the Bell Tower, built in the 17th century on the remains of one of the six towers that once guarded the defensive walls. At the summit of the hill lies the Church of San Michele Arcangelo (Archangel St Michael), housing 16th-century works and an anonymous 18th-century canvas on the high altar. At the foot of the village is the Church of Santa Maria del Giglio (St Mary of the Lily), noted for its intricate stucco work. In the heart of the village stands the Small Chapel of St Francis, built on the spot where, according to tradition, the Saint announced to the locals his intention to retire to a hermitage. The main square is graced by a 16th-century fountain.
