Savignano Irpino
Savignano Irpino (AV)
Hidden gemVillages
The story
On the border with Puglia, Savignano Irpino spreads alleys and stone houses along the ridge, among the most beautiful villages in Italy.
Access
FREE
The story
On the border with Apulia, perched on a saddle-shaped relief above the valley of the Cervaro, Savignano Irpino — which until 1963 was called Savignano di Puglia — is dominated by the remains of its castle. The Castrum Sabinianum is attested from the early Middle Ages and its construction, between the seventh and eighth centuries, responded to the frequent raids of the era. It was the Normans, who on the nearby plateau of the Ferrara held the famous Assizes of Ariano of 1142, who girdled it with walls and fortifications.
What to see
The village spreads between the two hills of the Tombola and the Calvario, in a dominating position over the valley of the Cervaro. Of the castle remain some perimeter walls, recently restored. Around it, the middle valley of the Cervaro is clothed by a wide natural wood of broadleaf trees.
Hours and prices
Free entry.
Tips
It is a border village, literally at the edge of Campania towards Apulia: handy to touch along the state road 90 of the Puglie, by car. A good destination for those who seek the most authentic Irpinia off the beaten track, to be combined with Ariano Irpino a short distance away.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Castrum Sabinianum of Savignano Irpino?
The ancient castle of the village, attested from the early Middle Ages and built between the seventh and eighth centuries; some perimeter walls remain, recently restored.
Why was Savignano called «di Puglia»?
For its position on the Apulian border: it kept the name of Savignano di Puglia until 1963, when it became Savignano Irpino.
What were the Assizes of Ariano of 1142?
An important body of Norman laws, promulgated on the nearby plateau of the Ferrara, in the territory tied to Savignano.
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