Terni

Terni: from ancient splendour to the present day

Terni is the city you don't expect, a multifaceted kaleidoscope, the fruit of a historical journey marked by moments of caesura, radical changes, falls and rebirths.

The ancient city was founded by the Umbrians in the fertile valley of the river Nera, whose waters have been a source of life, production and wealth for the population for centuries. In Roman times, the town became a flourishing municipality thanks to its location along the Flaminian Way; evidence of this historical period is theFausto Amphitheatre today a venue for concerts and performances.

Terni is linked to Valentine's Day martyr, first bishop and patron of the city. The relics of the saint, known throughout the world as the protector of lovers, are preserved in the Basilica dedicated to him. The cult of Saint Valentine and the Valentinian Events have made Terni the propelling centre of a message of love and solidarity addressed to all mankind.

The hub of the city is Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza Europa, overlooked respectively by the Palazzo del Popolo and Spada Palace, a noble Renaissance residence that is now the municipal seat. Of particular interest is the church of St Francis which it keeps in the Paradisi Chapel a cycle of frescoes from the 14th century with scenes of the Last Judgement of considerable artistic value.

Towards the end of the 19th century, Terni was hit by the wave of the second industrial revolution and changed its face, becoming the 'Italian Manchester'. Agricultural and manufacturing activities gave way to the production of steel and weapons, the urban centre became a spokesman for technological progress and became an example of a city in the vanguard of the new Italian state.

Don't miss the opportunity to get to know an unconventional city through the eyes of someone who has always lived and loved it. Book your guided tour with Centro Guide Umbria and allow yourself to be captivated by the squares and views where monuments of antiquity and contemporary architecture come together in a unique experience.