Picarelli

Let's explore the village of Picarelli

Picarelli is a small village located in the north of the city of Avellino, surrounded by the districts of Santorelli, Scrofeta, Valle Santa Caterina, Cardaloni, and Caselle. Its beauty is due to the presence of the Scrofeta stream and the Rio Vergine, which run through the area until they reach the Sabato river. The village is home to just under 300 inhabitants who value tranquility and simplicity as their way of life.

History of Picarelli

Picarelli has an ancient history, although little is documented. The village had a parish church only in 1715, with the first baptismal book dating back to 1718. The parish and the subordinate church, dedicated to the patriarch St. Joseph, date from two different periods. The subordinate church was older and used to host its own confraternity, the "Congrega della Buona Morte," which has now disappeared.

Picarelli's history is fragmented, but it is known that in 1886, the Avellino Municipality approved architect Ballerino's project for the repair of the church, allocating the sum of 1,100 lire. Furthermore, other works on public wells were carried out for a sum of 140 lire.

The village was designated as a "fraction" on December 10, 1952, due to its natural separation from the territory of the head town and other fractions of Avellino, and for particular economic, social, and religious conditions. Since March 10, 1978, Picarelli has been part of the II District, alongside Pianodardine and Rione Ferrovia.

Later, the territory of the village was extended thanks to the construction of heavy prefabricated buildings that formed the "dormitory" district, detached from the historic center of Picarelli. In 2003, the village had only 37 inhabitants.

Picarelli: the charm of rural life.

Life in Picarelli

Life in Picarelli is peaceful and quiet. The inhabitants are mainly elderly people who enjoy spending time in nature. The village offers a variety of activities for those who love the outdoors, such as hiking on the surrounding mountains, long walks in green areas, and fishing in the Sabato river.

Picarelli has a social center, a green space maintained by the local community, and a church. The feast of the patron saint, St. Joseph, is celebrated every year in honor of the subordinate church dedicated to the patriarch St. Joseph.

The village doesn't have any shops or restaurants, but there are a few small commercial activities that offer basic necessities. Usually, the inhabitants go to the nearby town of Avellino for shopping or eating out.

Conclusion

Picarelli represents the true essence of rural life, surrounded by nature and charming districts. Its ancient and little-documented history represents a piece of cultural heritage to be discovered. Anyone with an explorer's spirit can find a peaceful and quiet place to relax and enjoy the simple things in life in this village.

Francesco Serra
Updated Friday, Sep 23, 2022