Greccio

Greccio is a comune in the Lazio region of central Italy, located in the province of Rieti. Situated in the Sabine Hills, the town sits in a rural, hilly landscape and is about 20 kilometers north of Rieti. The surrounding area is characterized by stone-built streets, chestnut woods, and agricultural activity.

Greccio is best known for its association with Saint Francis of Assisi. In 1223 he arranged a live nativity scene in a cave near the town to celebrate Christmas, an event that helped popularize the Christmas crib tradition. The episode is described in Franciscan sources and is commemorated locally by sites connected with the Grotta di San Francesco and the Sanctuary of Greccio, which were developed to honor the event and its legacy in Christian devotional practice.

The town preserves a medieval core with historical architecture, including remnants of a hilltop fortress and traditional stone houses. The Sanctuary of Greccio and nearby religious sites remain focal points for pilgrims and visitors. The Museo della Natività (Nativity Museum) provides displays related to nativity scenes and religious art, and the local calendar includes religious and cultural events tied to the town’s Franciscan heritage.

Economically, Greccio relies on a combination of agriculture, rural tourism, and cultural heritage. The area serves as a gateway to hiking and countryside experiences in the Monti Sabini, contributing to regional tourism and the preservation of its historical and religious legacy.