80km/50mi northeast of Rome is the provincial capital of Rieti (402m/1,327ft; pop. 44,000), situated on a fertile plateau, fringed by hills, on the right bank of the River Velino. Along the north side of the town stretch defensive walls and towers. In the central Piazza Vittorio Emanuele is the Palazzo Comunale with the Museo Civico. To the
southwest stands the cathedral (completed 1458, almost completely altered in the 17th century), with a 13th century campanile. Inside, in the fourth chapel on the north side, is a statue of St Barbara by Bernini. From the Piazza del Duomo there are fine views. Behind the cathedral lies the Bishop's Palace, with the beautiful Loggia Papale (13th century).
the town hosts the Festa del Sole every July.