Lisciano
Lisciano: a small hamlet with history
Lisciano is a small hamlet located 600 meters above sea level on the slopes of the Terminillo mountain range in the province of Rieti. The hamlet is divided into two parts: Lisciano Alto, the oldest part, built around the Parish Church of Santa Maria del Soccorso, dating back to the Middle Ages, and the more recent part, located downstream from the old village, separated by the Strada statale 4 bis del Terminillo.
The Church of Santa Maria del Perpetuo Soccorso
The Church of Santa Maria del Perpetuo Soccorso, erected around 1440 after the statue of the Madonna del Soccorso was found in a cave, was established as a parish in 1616 and restored and expanded in 1771. The church still retains its original appearance, with its single nave and the Rococo style typical of the restoration period. The main altar houses the terracotta statue of the Madonna del Soccorso, and 4 side altars adorn the nave. The sacristy is very large and has a cabinet with numerous relics of saints. Additionally, two frescoes from 1910 adorn the ceiling, while three paintings and a statue of Sant'Antonio Abate decorate the side altars. The church also has 4 disused tombs. The bell tower has 3 bells equipped with an electronic mechanism.
Festivals and traditions
The hamlet of Lisciano celebrates some highly revered religious festivals. The feast of Sant'Antonio Abate is celebrated on the last Sunday of January, while the feast of the Madonna del Soccorso takes place on the Sunday following the 21st of May. The festival of San Vincenzo Ferrer is held on the last Sunday of August. These three festivals are the most significant and attract many worshippers and tourists each year.
The Music Band
Lisciano is also known for its music band, founded in 1911 by the then parish priest of the village, Don Attilio di Francesco. The Lisciano band is one of the oldest in the province of Rieti, if not the oldest, and is composed of about 30 musicians. The band performs during the village's religious festivals as well as other musical events.
Conclusion
Lisciano is a small hamlet that preserves its history and traditions. The Parish Church of Santa Maria del Perpetuo Soccorso is undoubtedly the most important place in the village, but the music band also represents an important part of the village's life. If you want to spend a few hours surrounded by nature and tranquility, Lisciano is definitely worth a visit.
