Rubiera

A village where history, art and nature come together.
Amidst Renaissance palaces, medieval towers and the banks of the Secchia River, every corner tells a story of centuries of Reggio Emilia’s traditions and way of life.

Rubiera is located 12 km from Reggio Emilia, at the junction of the historic Via Emilia and the Secchia River.
Its strategic location, between the plains and the foothills, makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the Reggio Emilia area.

The town offers a unique blend of history, art and nature. Walking through the historic centre, you can enjoy centuries of history, amidst Renaissance palaces, medieval towers and picturesque views.
It is the perfect place for those who love cultural itineraries, experiences in the great outdoors and moments of relaxation by the river and in the parks.

Rubiera is delightful all year.
Spring and autumn are ideal for walks and bike rides along the Secchia River Park and its nature reserves.
Local festivals, such as the June Festival and the September Festival, bring the town to life with events and traditions.
Winter is perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts.

What to see

Rubiera Fortress (Rocca)
a massive medieval fortress with four towers, surrounded by moats, now largely converted into houses and offices.
Sacrati Palace
the former residence of the Boiardo and Sacrati families, now the Town Hall and Municipal Library.
Rainusso Palace
former monastery of the Friars Minor Conventual dating back to the 16th century.
Clock Tower and Bell Tower
dating back to the 16th century.
Annunciation Church
18th-century oratory.
Saints Donnino and Biagio Church
renovated in the early 20th century.
Herberia Theatre
an example of late Art Nouveau architecture.
Corte Ospitale
ancient 15th-century resting place for travellers, now a theatre and cultural centre.

Nearby

Main events

Sport and outdoor activities

Local history

Rubiera has its roots in ancient times.
In Roman times, it stood along the great Via Emilia, the consular road linking the main cities of northern Italy, and it was here that the emperors Gallienus and Valerian had a bridge built over the River Secchia as early as the 3rd century AD.

In the Middle Ages, the town grew up around a strategic fortification on the Secchia and became the scene of struggles between the cities of Reggio Emilia and Modena.
Its border location made it a place of great military importance, with walls and a castle to defend trade along the Via Emilia.

Over time, Rubiera came under the control of powerful families and lordships.
From the 14th century, it was linked to the House of Este, becoming part of the Este State, and in the following period, it also came under the influence of the Church and the Popes.

During the Este period, the fortress was reinforced and also converted into a state prison, where, among others, patriots such as Don Giuseppe Andreoli were imprisoned; he was sentenced to death in 1822 for his liberal ideas.

With the unification of Italy, Rubiera gradually moved away from its military function, while retaining its historical and cultural identity.

The town still preserves evocative traces of the past, with porticoes, ancient palaces and archaeological remains that tell of a continuous dialogue between history and modernity.

Curiosities

Identity and traditions

Contacts

42048 Rubiera

Tel. +39 0522 622202 - Public Relations Office

Rubiera Municipality