Selci: Churches, Art and Regional Cuisine
Accommodation in Selci
Selci reveals its character particularly where fortifications, sacred buildings, contemporary art and regional cuisine come together. In the historic centre, the ancient Castru Silice Gate and the narrow, elongated lanes lead into a history of the town that stretches back to medieval churches and an early fortification.
Historic Centre and Churches
Rocca Castri is a preserved element of Selci’s first fortification. The ancient Castru Silice Gate remains the only entrance to the historic centre and leads directly to the narrow, elongated lanes.
The Chiesa del SS. Salvatore is Selci’s parish church. The origins of the Chiesa di Santo Stefano date back to the 11th century, and it was rebuilt in 1945. This picture is complemented by the Chiesa di S. Eleuterio, a medieval rural church from the 11th century.
Art in the Townscape
PUBBLICA, Residenza d’arte has transformed Selci into an open-air gallery; the artistic route runs around the main street. The route therefore does not pass through a single interior space, but through the streets around Selci’s main street. Only the façade of the Chiesa di Santa Lucia has been preserved; in 2022, a work from the Selci Visionaria urban renewal project was created on it. From Via Roma, a mural of a woman with “tired eyes” can be seen on the façade of a building; it is part of the PUBBLICA, Residenza d’arte route. Rocca Castri is a square tower that houses exhibitions of paintings and agricultural equipment.
Hiking and Pilgrimage Routes
The Cammino dei Borghi Sabini is a six-day circular hiking trail, and Selci is one of the municipalities through which it passes. If you are planning to walk the trail, please note that there is currently no continuous dedicated signage along the entire Cammino; following the GPX track is recommended for navigation. Selci is also designated as a leading location on the Tiberine section of the Via di Francesco. The six-day duration should be taken into account when planning your personal time for this hike, for example when planning your own daily stages.
Regional Specialties
Local cuisine includes Fallone, a slightly spicy rolled pizza with Swiss chard, chicory or courgette, typical of Torri in Sabina, Selci, Forano and Nazzano. Porchetta selciana is a traditional product of Selci; its distinctive seasoning and preparation have been passed down from generation to generation. The Tradizionale Sagra Della Porchetta is traditionally held in mid-August and, according to the account handed down, has been taking place for almost 70 years. The traditional mid-August timing places the festival within Selci’s annual calendar.
In the Surrounding Area
The Santuario di Vescovio, with its bell tower, is located in the immediate vicinity of Selci.
Discover More Places
Salisano, Castel San Pietro, Castelnuovo Di Farfa, Poggio Bustone, Castel di Tora, Torricella In Sabina, Varco Sabino and Montopoli Di Sabina
To the higher-level travel overview: Rieti.
