Atella
Welcome to Atella: a city with a thousand-year history
Hello friends! Today I'll talk to you about Atella, a small but fascinating city located in the heart of the Vitalba Valley in Basilicata. Atella has about 3,700 inhabitants and borders the municipalities of Rionero in Vulture, Filiano and Ripacandida, Ruvo del Monte, San Fele, Bella, Calitri and Avigliano. Its privileged position allows it to enjoy a mild climate and a stunning landscape, ranging from green cereal fields to the slopes of Mount Vulture.
History and origins of Atella
Atella's history dates back to the 14th century, but some archaeological finds seem to prove an even older origin. It is believed that the city may have been founded by refugees from ancient Atella or on the ruins of another city, Celenna, mentioned by the Latin poet Virgil in the Aeneid. In the area, a necropolis from the 4th century BC and a Roman sarcophagus have been found. In 1152, a papal bull by Pope Eugene III gave birth to "Santa Maria di Rivonigro", a hamlet of the feud of Atella.
But it is mainly thanks to the will of the Angevins that Atella becomes a thriving city in the 14th century. Giovanni di Gravina, son of King Charles II of Anjou, promised tax exemption for 10 years to those who moved to the city. Atella was populated by people from the areas of Rionero in Vulture, Monticchio, Lagopesole and other places in the area. Under Angevin rule, Atella became an important economic and military center and one of the richest cities in Basilicata. The city was equipped with walls and a castle, and Atellan products such as cereals, cheeses and meats were exported to the most important cities in southern Italy.
Decline and rebirth of Atella
Unfortunately, the era of peace and prosperity lasted about a century and Atella faced a progressive decline, due to the repeated looting, the continuous changes of ownership and the violent earthquakes. However, thanks to the tenacity and willingness to act of its inhabitants, the city managed to recover and be reborn in a new guise. Over the years it has managed to maintain its identity and enhance its cultural heritage.
What to see in Atella
Atella has a lot to offer to those who visit it. For art lovers, a visit to the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore is a must. Built between the 14th and 15th centuries, the church has a Romanesque-Gothic façade of great impact. Inside, the frescoes date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Near the church is the Clock Tower, dating back to the 14th century, which with its height of 20 meters dominates the city.
But the real gem of Atella is the Ducal Castle, built in the 13th century by the Normans and later enlarged. The castle, now restored and open to the public, stands out for its grandeur and the panoramic view it offers of the city. Inside, you can admire the Duke's rooms and the Hall of Coats of Arms, where the coats of arms of the feudal lords who ruled the city are displayed.
Events and traditions
In Atella, as in many cities in southern Italy, popular religiosity plays an important role. Every year on August 15th, the Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help is celebrated with a procession through the streets of the historic center. In the summer, there is also the Festival of Roses, a event dedicated to floral art that attracts visitors from all over the region.
Cuisine and typical products
You can't talk about Atella without mentioning its excellent cuisine. Typical products include bread baked in a wood oven, cured meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables. Among the specialties to try are orecchiette with lamb sauce, fusilli with pork ragù, and the main dish, guazzetto di lumache, a stew of snails. And last but not least, don't miss out on local pastries with exquisite sweets like sanguinaccio and zeppola.
Here is a brief overview of Atella, a city with a thousand-year history that deserves to be visited. If you find yourself in Basilicata, don't hesitate to stop by. You will be welcomed and surely captivated by the authentic charm of this corner of Italy.
