"A cathedral at Italy's navel where popes canonized saints and crowned kings"
Pozzo Sacro di Santa Vittoria
Ìsili/Isili, Sardinia, Italy
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta has anchored Christian worship in Rieti since at least the sixth century. Rebuilt in the twelfth century and consecrated by Pope Honorius III in 1225, it witnessed the canonization of Saint Dominic in 1234 and the coronation of a king in 1289. Its Romanesque crypt and bell tower coexist with a Baroque interior, while outside the walls the Franciscan sanctuaries of the Valle Santa radiate from the city like the arms of a cross.
Weather & Best Time
Plan Your Visit
Save this site and start planning your journey.
Quick Facts
Location
Ìsili/Isili, Sardinia, Italy
Coordinates
39.7119, 9.1025
Last Updated
Mar 9, 2026
Learn More
First documented in 598, rebuilt from 1109, consecrated in 1225 by Pope Honorius III. Hosted the canonization of Saint Dominic (1234) and the coronation of Charles II of Anjou (1289). Mother church of the Diocese of Rieti and gateway to the Valle Santa.
Origin Story
The earliest record of the cathedral appears in 598, when Pope Gregory the Great instructed the deposit of martyrs' relics near the baptismal font. The building that housed these relics was substantially rebuilt from 1109 under Bishop Benincasa. The crypt was consecrated in 1157, and the full cathedral was consecrated by Pope Honorius III on September 9, 1225, during a period when Rieti served frequently as an alternative papal seat.
Key Figures
Pope Gregory the Great
First documented papal involvement with the cathedral (598)
Bishop Benincasa
Initiated the reconstruction of the cathedral (1109)
Pope Honorius III
Consecrated the cathedral (1225)
Pope Gregory IX
Celebrated the canonization Mass of Saint Dominic here (1234)
Saint Dominic
Founder of the Dominican Order, canonized in this cathedral
Spiritual Lineage
The cathedral is the mother church of the Diocese of Rieti, one of the oldest dioceses in central Italy. Its relationship to the papacy, particularly in the thirteenth century, gives it a significance beyond its diocesan role. Its position at the center of the Valle Santa connects it to the Franciscan pilgrimage network.
Know a Sacred Site We Should Include?
Help us expand our collection of sacred sites. Share your knowledge and contribute to preserving the world's spiritual heritage.