They were built by the Romans in 271BC to drain the Rieti Valley wetland to combat malaria. In the 16th century additional canals were put in above the falls to regulate the flow and then in the 18th century steps were added above the falls. Today canals direct the water into hydroelectric plants which drastically reduces the water flow to the falls and so water is only released on a schedule for a few hours a day.
I plan on timing my arrival for the water release at 11am today. Then, once I've spent some time in the Falls Park, I'll continue on my way to Piediluco that is sited on a lake - something I'm also looking forward to!
For now though, breakfast - including a very tasty warm croissant - and a cappuccino to start the day!
