Rimini History, Italy

Rimini, History – Early times

Rimini is a special Italian resort, located on the Adriatic Sea, offering its visitors both exquisite marine landscapes and unforgettable remnants of the past. Rimini, History starts with the Roman period, more specifically with the year 286 BC when the official name for the town was Ariminum (this is the ancient name of Marecchia, a river that borders Rimini). The Romans have left their heritage all over Rimini in spectacular constructions such as the Roman Amphitheatre, the Augustus Arch or the Tiberius Bridge. The erection of the latter started during emperor Augustus’ reign, in 14 BC and was finished during emperor Tiberius’ one in 21 BC, therefore 7 years. The interesting part about it is that it is still in use today, therefore you can definitely feel the here presence of ancient Romans. Rimini was also an important place for Christianity as one of the times’ council was organized here, accounting, thus, for the popularity that Christians were starting to have in the Roman empire.

Rimini, History – Middle Ages

The strongest medieval family was the Malatesta family. They ruled the city for almost two centuries (15-16th century) and as a symbol of their power they built the Simondo Castle at the orders of Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta. The entrance is embellished with the Malatesta gilt spurs which are also visible on many of the epoch’s medals or paintings. Being a rich family, they also constructed their own Malatesta temple, an impressive building where local Renaissance artists, such as Giovanni of Rimini, painted the holy scenes. After the Malatesta family has lost its influence over the city, Sismondo Castle became a papal fortress and Rimini a part of the Papal States. Which is why, the municipal square also became home to a Pope Paul V statue to reinforce its domination of the city.

Rimini, History – Modern times

Present day Rimini has become a modern resort which blends the heritage if its ancestors presented so far in Rimini, History with more than 227 spa centers and 1100 hotels. Today, Rimini is also known as the birth place of Federico Fellini, therefore history has shifted its focus from emperors and state rulers to “rulers” of cinematography. The Federico Fellini Museum offers one an amazing tour through the life and work of one of the most important film directors of the 20th century. Apart from history, Rimini nowadays also exploits its 15 km long sandy beach and the hospitality of its inhabitants in order to attract hundreds of tourists every year.

Rimini is therefore one of the most chosen destinations in Italy but you should know that there are interesting and history full places all over Italy, even though they are not as popular as Rimini. Reading Ancona Travel Guide and Perugia Travel Guide might be just enough to stir your curiosity.