Vairano Patenora
alto casertano
Hidden gemVillages

The story
A medieval borgo (old village) shut inside turreted walls with only three gates, dominated by the Castello d'Avalos, and not far off the Cistercian abbey of the Ferrara with its frescoes.
Access
FREE
The story
Vairano Patenora rises in the Volturno valley, between the Matese and the park of Roccamonfina, where reliefs and a small volcanic lake emerge from the plain. The name comes from the Latin 'land of Varius'; 'Patenora' recalls the plain carved by the Volturno. The village keeps a notable medieval core.
What to see
The medieval village of Vairano, with its castle and walls, is among the best preserved of the Upper Caserta area. Around it, the Volturno valley and the volcanic lake of Vairano, in a landscape between fertile plain and reliefs of Mediterranean scrub.
Hours and prices
Free entry.
Tips
The old village is visited on foot. You are at a crossroads of the Upper Caserta area, handy by car between the Matese and the park of Roccamonfina. To be combined with Roccamonfina and Pietramelara.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to see at Vairano Patenora?
The medieval village with the castle, among the best preserved of the Upper Caserta area, and the nearby volcanic lake of Vairano.
What does the name Vairano Patenora mean?
'Vairano' derives from the Latin 'land of Varius'; 'Patenora' recalls the plain carved by the Volturno.
Where is Vairano Patenora?
In the Volturno valley, between the Matese massif and the park of Roccamonfina, in the province of Caserta.
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