The Waterfall of Marmore is simply a formidable work of engineering and with its 165m, is one of the highest in Europe.
It is formed at the confluence of the river Velino in the river Nera. In 271 BC the Romans began the excavation of the channel in which to flow all the waters of the swamp that covered the current Rieti plain, bringing them to the edge of the cliff of Marmore, where they would then precipitate with a spectacular fall. In the following centuries, the Waterfall underwent further changes and channeling, which have determined the current appearance.
The Marmore Falls is one of the most painted, photographed, described and praised in the world by the many visitors who had the privilege of seeing it in their path. From Virgil to the pilgrims on the road to Rome, by the nobles and by European intellectuals on the Grand Tour to tourists of the new millennium all over the centuries they have entered the Marmore waterfall as unmissable destination of their trip to Italy. Anyone who has not already visited, sooner or later will not be able to resist the magic of this place.
It is unique because a real river, the Velino, pounces on another great river, the Nera. Most of the opening of the waterfall is an event and its expectation is the opportunity to immerse themselves in a park equipped. You know the surrounding area, the Nera Valley, rich in history, culture, nature and pleasant culinary surprises.
The water from the Velino for many hours a day feeding one of Italy’s most important hydroelectric plants producing clean energy. In some hours of the day and night the water is released, creating the spectacle of the waterfall. The well-equipped “Waterfall Park”, is always accessible and can be crossed and visited, both with entry from below. Access is along the Valnerina. Both the entry from above, from the village of “Marmore”, which is on the edge of the plain of Rieti, not far from Lake Piediluco.
The spectacle of the Marmore Falls can be enjoyed from various vantage points and, when it opened, you have time to reach them all. From the balcony of lovers at the end of a short tunnel excavated in the rock, you can even touch the water of the first and most impressive jump. A true immersion (essential to adopt waterproof) in a unique emotion.