Lettere – Castle, Aqueduct and Hiking Trails

Lettere combines medieval architectural history with trails through forests and views of the Gulf of Naples. Castello di Lettere stands on a scenic hill overlooking the entire Valle del Sarno. From there, the view reaches the Gulf, Mount Vesuvius and the Sorrento Peninsula; how far you can see depends on the weather. When planning a stay, it is worth considering the historic sites and the various hiking trails as separate highlights.

Castello di Lettere and its architectural history

Castello di Lettere was built during the Lombard period and later expanded by the Normans in the 12th century. The castle therefore highlights two successive phases of construction. Its surviving features include watchtowers, crenellated walls and the remains of a medieval cathedral. These elements reflect different architectural functions: defensive and religious buildings are both part of the history of the same castle complex.

The location is also a defining feature of the townscape. The hill rises above the entire Valle del Sarno; the view takes in the Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius and the Sorrento Peninsula. Visibility across this landscape can vary with the weather. The castle thus brings together historic construction phases and sweeping views, though the two aspects tell different stories: the walls reflect the development of the complex, while the hilltop setting reveals its surroundings.

Aqueduct and religious architecture

The Acquedotto Romano di Lettere is an ancient waterworks. It used local springs to supply the town with water. Some well-preserved sections are still visible today, particularly in the Casale area. The aqueduct adds a different perspective on the past to the castle’s architectural history: here, the focus is on the former water supply and its surviving structures.

The Chiesa del SS. Rosario di Lettere is another example of religious architecture. It forms part of the architectural complex of the Dominican convent. This connection places the church within a wider monastic context. Together with the remains of the medieval cathedral at the Castello, it offers a glimpse of different religious buildings, without presenting them as parts of the same complex.

Two hiking trails, different landscapes

The route to Castello di Lettere passes through chestnut and alder woods and reaches Vena Perciata at an elevation of 339 metres. Vena Perciata is considered a small canyon; the rocky landscape includes caves and rock alcoves. If you plan to take this trail, bear in mind that vegetation and trail conditions can change, and check the current situation before setting out.

The Sentiero della sorgente di Lettere is considered a trekking route suitable for everyone. It starts in the square in the Orsano district and follows the former medieval aqueduct for long stretches. The panorama includes the Gulf of Naples, Monte Faito, the coast from Torre to Castellammare di Stabia, and Mount Vesuvius. On clear days, Capri, Ischia, Procida and the Campi Flegrei are also visible.

The routes offer different landscapes and views: the trail to Castello passes through woodland to a rock formation, while the Sentiero della sorgente follows the former aqueduct and offers a sweeping panorama. Views of the more distant islands and the Campi Flegrei are specifically dependent on clear conditions.

Wine designation and community tradition

A regional wine designation also bears the town’s name. The sparkling red wine Penisola Sorrentina may be called “Lettere” if the grapes come from vineyards in the municipalities of Lettere, Casola and Sant’Antonio Abate. The name is therefore tied to the origin of the grapes in these three municipalities.

A' sagliuta a Sant'Anna is among the intangible cultural heritage of the Lettere community; the element is listed in the IPIC. The programme was presented on 5 December 2024.

Discover more destinations: Anacapri, Melito Di Napoli, Caivano, Marigliano, Schiazzano, Saviano, Casavatore, Trecase.

Go to the main travel overview: Naples.