Rifiano
Welcome to Rifiano!
Rifiano is a small town in the autonomous province of Bolzano, located in the beautiful Val Passiria north of Merano. Here you can enjoy a holiday immersed in nature, walking among the green meadows and dense forests that surround the town. But Rifiano is not only a destination for nature lovers, it is also a place rich in history and culture, with evidence of the past dating back to the medieval era. In this text, I will tell you some curiosities about this fascinating South Tyrolean municipality.
Origin of the name
The toponym Rifiano derives from the Latin personal name Rufus or Rufio, and means "Rufo's land". The origin of the name is already attested in the Middle Ages, with various variants including Rufian, Ruffian, Ruphiano, Rueffiani, and Riffian.
History of Rifiano
The history of Rifiano began in the Middle Ages when it was under the control of the nearby Merano and Val Passiria. The town advanced in importance as a sanctuary dedicated to Mary, and today tourism represents the main source of income for the community, thanks also to the proximity of the thermal city of Merano. During World War I, Rifiano was part of the district of the city of Merano and hosted the district court of the Kingdom of Italy.
Symbols of Rifiano
The coat of arms of the Municipality of Rifiano depicts a bell tower with the bell window and the onion dome, on a blue background, symbol of the local church. The coat of arms was adopted in 1968 and represents a perfect union between the history of the town and its religious faith.
Monuments of Rifiano
The church of Santa Maria Addolorata is the namesake parish of Rifiano and was probably built on a previous sacred building from the 1500s. The church contains several treasures, including an organ from the Rieger company, built in 1902, and a pulpit in gilded wood.
Society
The population of Rifiano is mainly composed of German native speakers. The municipality is part of the autonomous province of Bolzano, which guarantees a perfect preservation of its linguistic and cultural identity.
Demographic evolution of Rifiano
The population of Rifiano has consistently increased over the past few years, passing from 1196 inhabitants in 2001 to 1387 in 2019. Despite being a small town, its strategic location makes it an ideal place to live and work.
Administration
The administration of Rifiano operates to guarantee the protection and enhancement of the town, paying particular attention to the promotion of tourist activities and the safeguarding of the historical and artistic heritage.
Conclusions
Rifiano is a place full of charm and history, immersed in the nature of South Tyrol. Its church dedicated to Mary, its cycle path leading to Merano, and its proximity to the cities of Bolzano and Resia, make Rifiano an excellent destination for a holiday of relaxation, culture, and outdoor sports. Thank you for choosing us, we wait for you in Rifiano.
