Man, do I like being on vacation! This is always a true statement, but when you have cool things to do everyday its even way better. Today we went to Terni to see the Cascata Delle Marmore or “Marble Waterfall”. These waterfalls are the highest in Europe at 165 meters (about 540 feet) and have 3 drops...their extraordinary beauty have been well-known since ancient times. In the 18th century the falls became even more popular in Europe when epic poems by poets and writers appeared, it was represented by artist, and admired by princes, intellectuals and scientist. The area became the privileged destination for travelers of the Grand Tour.
The waterfalls are man-made, and represent a remarkable feat by Roman hydraulic engineers, they were created in the III century BC under orders of the Roman Consul. The idea was to drain the swampy Riete basin by diverting the river Velino into the Nera River, by means of a 165 meter drop. The 1st outlet was dug in 271 BC. Disputes have raged forever by those who believe it represents a threat of flooding to Rome. Today the falls are used to produce hydroelectric power and are only visible at certain times on certain days.
We, of course, are the lucky american tourist...we knew the falls would be running, but we didn’t know to what degree...as you can see from the pictures, we got the whole show, it was thunderous and awe inspiring. So much water and mist it created a rainbow.
There are 534 hard steps that separate the bottom viewing area of the falls to the top area, in all there are 5 spots you can hike to and see the water from different perspectives. We did all 5...I estimate we walked up and down about 1600 steps today...no sweat, we were like little kids watching the show, and you know, little kids never tire of this kind of stuff.
After hiking and doing the “step master” we needed to eat...we looked at the places around the Falls, didn’t see anything we liked and decided to head down to Lago di Piediluco, a small lake about 6km down the mountain. Found Trattoria da Marilu across the lane from the lake and enjoyed a wonderful meal. Headed home once again satisfied with our day. Life is still Good!
Barring any major developments, tomorrow we head for Assisi to see the magical St. Francis and his awesome Basilica...can’t wait.
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| Awe inspiring. |
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| So much to see... |
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| Great reflection...nice day. |
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| Thunderous |
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| Who turned off the faucet? |
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| this is 1 of 5 viewpoints. |
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| 534 steps from top viewing area to bottom. |
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| Nanc loving her day. |
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| Autumn colors are here. |
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| The concert? |
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| Drive home is always wonderful. |
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