Campagna: Festa de ’A Chiena, history and nature

There are several distinct ways to explore Campagna on a trip: the Festa de ’A Chiena recalls a historic water tradition, the Palazzo Ducale represents a specific episode in the town’s history, and rivers and WWF protected areas shape its geographical setting. When looking for a hotel in Campagna, it helps to decide first what your trip will focus on: the Festa, historic architecture or a protected area? The following places and connections offer practical guidance.

Rivers and WWF protected areas

The three small rivers Atri, Tenza and Trigento run through Campagna from north to south and flow into the Sele. The Oasi WWF di Serre Persano is located in the municipalities of Campagna and Serre (SA), within a Special Area of Conservation (IT8050021) and a Special Protection Area (ZPS). The entrance to the Oasi WWF Monte Polveracchio is at kilometre 15 of provincial road 31, “Campagna-Acerno,” in the locality of Malepasso in Campagna (SA). The road name, kilometre marker and locality provide specific directions to the entrance.

The Festa de ’A Chiena and its water tradition

The Festa de ’A Chiena recalls the historic practice of channelling water from the Tenza River through the streets of Campagna’s historic centre. The programme includes the “Passeggiata,” during which participants walk through the water. These are two distinct aspects: the historical connection to water diversion and a named programme activity. If the Festa is the reason for your trip, check the dates for your intended stay in advance.

Palazzo Ducale: history and courtyard architecture

The Palazzo Ducale brings together a dated account of its origins and specific architectural details. In 1694, the patrician Nicola Pironti, originally from Ravello, had a feudal palace built beside the Chiesa del Santissimo Salvatore, after acquiring the fief of Campagna and receiving the title of its first duke. Arcades with large round arches and wrought-iron railings run along three sides of the courtyard. In the middle of the courtyard stands a fountain with a stone mask; beside the staircase are two sculpted medallions depicting human heads. The Palazzo’s history can thus be understood both through its feudal origins and the design of its courtyard.

Museum and hermitage: different areas of interest

The Museo della Memoria e della Pace – Centro Studi “Giovanni Palatucci” is laid out over two levels and divided into three different forms of interpretation. Its layout and the different forms of interpretation offer two practical points of reference for a visit. The Eremo di San Michele has a different connection to the landscape: set in a natural rock cave, it overlooks the Valle del Trigento and, farther away, the Valle del Sele and the Monti Picentini. The named valleys and mountains therefore also differ in their distance from the hermitage. Campagna thus offers a range of interests: the Palazzo’s architectural history, the museum’s forms of interpretation, and the rock cave with its views of the named landscapes.

Discover more destinations: Vietri Sul Mare, Trentinara, Santa Marina, Castinatelli, San Mango Piemonte, Marmorata, Minori, Ogliastro Cilento

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