San Martino in Rio

In San Martino in Rio history, art and tradition intertwine between the castle, alleys and museums, offering authentic experiences in the heart of the Reggio Emilia plain.

San Martino in Rio is located in the plain to the north-east of Reggio Emilia, 15 km away.

It is a village in the Reggio Emilia plain that surprises visitors with its ancient history, arcades, compact town centre and, above all, the Rocca Estense (Este Fortress), the architectural and cultural symbol of the town.
Inside, there are unique museums, such as the Agriculture and Rural Life Museum, which recounts the farming life of the area, and the Automobile Museum with its vintage cars.

San Martino in Rio is a delightful place to visit, especially in spring and autumn.
In spring, the village enlivens with colours and scents, perfect for walking in the historic centre and making the most of the public spaces.
In autumn, the village streets take on warm hues and the scents of the grape harvest fill the air, accompanied by local food and wine events that invite you to discover the authentic flavours of the Reggio Emilia plain.

What to see

Este Fortress (Rocca Estense)
an imposing fortress steeped in history, featuring frescoed rooms and areas open to visitors.
Agriculture and Rural Life Museum (Museo dell’Agricoltura e del Mondo Rurale)
housed within the Rocca, it offers a comprehensive insight into the farming world of the Reggio Emilia plain, from cultivation to domestic life.
Automobile Museum
A private collection featuring over forty classic cars, motorbikes and artefacts illustrating the history of Italian motoring.
Martino Vescovo Parish and Collegiate Church
A historic church in the heart of the village.
San Carlo Borromeo Church
A Baroque building consecrated in 1618, rich in works of art.

Main events

Local history

The area around San Martino in Rio was once dominated by marshes and forests, a landscape that bears witness to its natural origins.
The earliest documents mentioning the church of San Martino di Tours and the castle date back to the first half of the 11th century.

In 1115, the village, then under the Canossa family, was enfeoffed to the Roberti da Tripoli family, who retained control until 1430, when it passed to the Este family.

In the following centuries, the area faced military raids and plagues, before passing, in 1768, to Paolo d’Aragona and then coming under French rule.

From 1815 to 1859, it was part of the province of Modena and played an active role in the Risorgimento uprisings.

Famous people

Identity and traditions

Contacts

42018 San Martino in Rio

Tel. +39 0522 636711 - Town Hall

San Martino in Rio Municipality