Santo Tomeo Festival
Faith, tradition, and nature between Contigliano and Cottanello, in the heart of the Sabina region near Rieti
About Santo Tomeo
The Santo Tomeo Festival: A Bridge Between Two Communities
The Santo Tomeo Festival is a landmark event that unites the municipalities of Contigliano and Cottanello, in the province of Rieti, in the heart of the Sabina region of Lazio. The event revolves around the ancient Hermitage of Santo Tomeo, a place of worship nestled in the greenery of the Fontecerro area, right on the border between the two municipal territories. This shared location inspires the spirit of the festival: a moment of strong identity and community, bringing together citizens, associations, and volunteers from both towns.
Faith and Folk Tradition
The religious core of the event is centered on liturgical celebrations and traditional processions, with the participation of the San Michele Arcangelo parish. Alongside the spiritual dimension, a rich calendar of cultural and popular initiatives unfolds, accompanied by the local brass band and food stalls featuring typical products from the Sabina region. It is the perfect opportunity to rediscover the historical and devotional heritage of the two villages and to appreciate an authentic rural landscape.
Nature, Sport, and the Outdoors
Over the years, the Santo Tomeo Festival has developed a strong outdoor focus, making it an ideal event for nature lovers:
- CAI (Italian Alpine Club) hikes along the trails leading to the Santo Tomeo hermitage;
- Sunset trekking with an aperitif and barbecue at altitude;
- Horse riding with the Knights of the Round Table;
- Archery hosted by the Arcieri dell'Ariete;
- E-bike excursions promoted with FIAB Ruote Libera;
- Camper rally dedicated to outdoor tourism enthusiasts.
The Green Music Fontecerro Competition
Among the highlights of the festival is Green Music Fontecerro, a musical competition organized in collaboration with the Arte Mea music school, which brings live music to the meadows and woods of Fontecerro. Evening shows, musical entertainment, and activities for families and children complete a program designed for all ages.
An Inter-Municipal Event
The event is organized jointly by the Pro Loco associations of Contigliano and Cottanello, with the support of their respective municipal administrations, local associations, and numerous volunteers. More than just a patronal feast, Santo Tomeo has become a model of collaboration between two communities that share a hermitage, a saint, and a landscape: a small yet significant example of how tradition can unite the villages of the Sabina region.
Santo Tomeo — edition 2026
Santo Tomeo Festival 2026
The 2026 edition, held on May 16 and 17, confirmed the inter-municipal vocation of the event, with the Pro Loco associations of Contigliano and Cottanello united in the organization. A program rich in outdoor activities, religious appointments, and convivial moments around the Santo Tomeo hermitage, in the Fontecerro area.
Programme Santo Tomeo 2026
2026 Program (May 16-17)
- Religious celebrations and processions with the San Michele Arcangelo parish;
- CAI hike towards the Santo Tomeo hermitage;
- Sunset trekking with aperitif and barbecue;
- Horse riding with the Knights of the Round Table;
- Archery with the Arcieri dell'Ariete;
- E-bike excursions with FIAB Ruote Libera;
- Camper rally for outdoor tourism enthusiasts;
- Green Music Fontecerro, musical competition with the Arte Mea music school;
- Food stalls with typical products, local band, evening shows, and activities for families and children.
Highlights Santo Tomeo 2026
- Inter-municipal event between Contigliano and Cottanello around the Santo Tomeo hermitage
- CAI hike and sunset trekking with aperitif and barbecue
- Horse riding, archery, and camper rally
- Green Music Fontecerro musical competition with the Arte Mea school
Prices Santo Tomeo 2026
Practical information — Santo Tomeo
Where it takes place
The Santo Tomeo Festival is held in the Fontecerro area, around the Hermitage of Santo Tomeo, on the border between the territories of Cottanello and Contigliano (Province of Rieti, Lazio).
How to get there
By car: from Rieti, you can reach Contigliano and Cottanello via the provincial roads of the Sabina region; the hermitage area is signposted during the event. Arriving early is recommended for morning excursions. A dedicated area is provided for the camper rally.
Useful tips
For CAI hikes and trekking, hiking boots and clothing suitable for hilly terrain are recommended. Many activities are outdoors: bring water and sun protection. For updated programs and to book excursions, it is best to contact the Pro Loco associations of Contigliano and Cottanello.
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Where does it take place — Santo Tomeo
Eremo di Santo Tomeo (Fontecerro)