Terni

Terni is a city and comune in the central Italian region of Umbria. It is the capital of the Province of Terni and lies along the Nera river in the valley at the foot of the Apennines, near the Marmore Falls, a long-standing tourist attraction. The surrounding area is part of the Valnerina and features a mix of rivers, hills, and historic towns.

History and development: The site corresponds to the ancient Roman settlement of Interamna Nahars, later developing through the medieval and modern periods. The city grew notably during the industrial era, becoming an important center for iron and steel production. In recent decades the economy diversified toward services, logistics, and tourism, while industrial activity remains a component of the local economy.

Sights and culture: Terni hosts several historical and religious landmarks. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Basilica of San Valentino are prominent religious sites; the latter houses the relics of Saint Valentine, making the city a traditional destination for devotion to the saint. Roman remains, including traces of an amphitheatre, reflect the long urban history. The Cascata delle Marmore, created by Roman engineers to drain the Velino valley, is one of Italy’s best-known waterfalls and offers viewing points and park areas. The historic center features medieval and Renaissance architecture, and the city has cultural events and a football club, Ternana Calcio.

Transport: Terni is a regional transportation hub, connected by rail on the Rome–Ancona line and by road to nearby Umbrian towns and to the broader Italian road network, with access to major motorways in the vicinity.