Saagar Kote
Netflix’s Italian drama series ‘Riv4lries’ or ‘Riv4li’ takes a deep dive into the lives of several students at a middle school in Pisa. Created by Simona Ercolani, the narrative delves into the various hurdles and difficulties faced by students in the phase of pre-adolescence. It also looks at the complexities of issues such as the relationship between adults and youngsters, the ambitions of students, and romantic feelings in the lives of teenagers.
One of the major elements in the series is the conflict between the so-called “insiders” and “outsiders” in the school, wherein students at the Montalcini Middle School are divided into two groups based on their popularity and other factors. A new student named Terry changes the game when she starts a rivalry with the insiders. As the barriers between the two groups proliferate, they must learn how to move past social barriers and unite. The school environment and its surrounding areas, where most of the action in the series is set, play an important role in the narrative.
Riv4lries Filming Locations
‘Riv4lries’ is filmed in Italy, specifically in the region of Tuscany, which includes Pisa, and areas of the region of Lazio, including Rome. Although there are no official reports on the commencement and completion dates of the series, it can be presumed that production began around January 2025 and concluded before the end of June 2025. The choice of locations for the series indicates that it wanted to tell an authentic story set in the landscapes and buildings of Italy.
Pisa, Italy
Tuscany is one of Italy’s most beautiful regions, renowned for its stunning landscapes and impressive architecture. The city of Pisa in the region is especially popular due to its architectural marvels and serves as the primary location of the series. Several historic landmarks in the city appear in the series, including the Leaning Tower of Pisa, located at Piazza del Duomo, 56126. It is one of the most iconic architectural structures in the world, still drawing many tourists. The show features aerial shots that capture the tower in all its magnificence, adding to the authenticity of the narrative.
One of the other locations where the show was taped includes the Lungarni of Pisa, located at Ponte Solferino, 56125. This delightful promenade stretches along the Arno River, showcasing historical buildings and landmarks like the Museo delle Navi Antiche di Pisa and the National Museum of the Royal Palace. Some of the scenes involving the character of Terry and her interactions with other characters were filmed here. The series also includes moments that capture the beauty of Marina di Pisa, also known as Bocca d’Arno. The small seaside town is part of the municipality of Pisa. It is situated approximately 10 km west of the city, at the confluence of the Arno River and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The series contains depictions of the coast that highlight the visual charm of the place. Piazza Garibaldi serves as another location where the series was lensed. There are stunning aerial sequences that capture the essence of the small but lively square located at the northern end of the Ponte di Mezzo bridge. It acts as a gateway between the riverside and the historic district of Borgo Stretto, one of Pisa’s most characteristic medieval streets. Ultimately, the city of Pisa and its offerings in terms of historic architecture and natural beauty play a crucial role in setting the tonality of the show.
Rome, Italy
Rome serves as one of the most important locations in the production of the series, specifically the Giuseppe Garibaldi Primary School in the Appio-Latino district. The school, located at Via Mondovì 16, 00183, doubled for the Montalcini Middle School in the narrative, particularly for shooting the school’s exteriors. Some of the scenes that involve the students entering the school were presumably shot here. The exteriors of the institution also serve as the backdrop for scenes that involve important conversations between characters. Some parts of the school’s interior also serve as locations for taping essential scenes in the series. Rome is a significant city in cinematic history, as it has hosted the production of iconic films such as ‘The Bicycle Thieves,’ ‘Roman Holiday,’ and ‘The Godfather: Part III.’ As the series delves into the lives of students, it utilizes less popular locations in Rome.
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