Rieti’s region is characterized by alternating rural and urban elements. Despite the wide range of natural resources available, Rieti has historically faced challenges in building efficient communications infrastructures, thus making itself vulnerable to negative business cycles.

A4 Rieti and its territory / Natural assets

A5 The State of the Economy and Competitiveness of Rieti

Rieti’s economy was initially founded on agriculture. However, the opening of two industrial plants between the second half of the XIX century and first half of the XX century marked a shift in its economic structure. First, with the opening of the very first sugar refinery in Italy in 1873. Second, with the establishment of the Supertessile in 1928, later renamed Snia Viscosa, which employed more than 4,000 workers from all over Italy, and the Montecatini chemical plant (1937).
These last two plants were at the center of an integrated industrial system, expanding over the western side of the Rieti’s main axis Viale Maraini, benefiting from the presence of a watercourse and railway connection with Rieti’s train station.

A2 History and development of the area

During its operations, Snia Viscosa suffered dramatic shocks due the fluctuations of international markets. Following a first shutdown in the 1980s, further attempts at restarting production were made with scarce success.

The area covers a total surface of approximately 318.142 m2 (31,81 ha) and has been entirely abandoned since 2007. It is a crucial urban void, with many residential areas being built north of it in recent years.

Furthermore, the area’s land shows signs of contamination, which have already undergone partial remediation but will need further analysis and interventions.

A3 The status of land remediation