We’re not exaggerating when we say that the Tiber, for Sabina, is livelihood today, as it was in the past. This river, called “Il Biondo” (The Blonde one) in Rome, in ancient times, represented the natural border between the territories of the Latins and Sabines, who settled on the left bank, and the Etruscans on the right.
It was also an important communication and trade route: it is said that the famous Cottanello red marble, with which the columns inside St. Peter’s Basilica are made, arrived in Rome transported on the Tiber.
The flourishing agricultural activity that has always characterized the economy of the villages overlooking the river is due to the water of the Tiber.
Even today, in Sabina, the Tiber is navigable between Nazzano, Torrita Tiberina and Sant’Oreste. Along this stretch of the river, the new docks welcome the ecological boats that cut through its waters carrying tourists. A boat trip is certainly an excellent way to experience and discover the Tiber and to observe the Sabina from a different point of view.
To find out which animal species the Tiber and its environment give a home to, we recommend a trip to the Nazzano Tevere-Farfa Nature Reserve. Here, you will find a small oasis of peace, surrounded by nature, and you can take a simple stroll or a bike ride on the paths that wind along the river.
At the Mount Soratte slopes, the Tiber gives Sabina a conformation of the river that is so particular to be considered unique. The bends of the river meander to the point that they create a flask shape: these come so close to each other, almost touching, that they create a shape that is quite similar to a flask. This unique and particular stretch of river – called Fiasco del Tevere – can be easily reached on foot or by car and offers those who love walking and fishing, moments of genuine fun. Sports fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines and catch carp, crucian carp, bream, catfish, chub, bleak and gardon. Keep in mind though that fishing in this stretch of the Tiber is allowed only with a license.
