Casamassima
Casamassima: a small town at the foot of the Murge
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about Casamassima, a town in the Puglia region, located at the foot of the Murge. With a population of approximately 19,376 inhabitants, it is a charming city in the metropolitan city of Bari.
Physical geography
One of the highlights of Casamassima is its geographical location. It is located 230 meters above sea level, and borders nine other municipalities, including Turi, Acquaviva delle Fonti, and Noicattaro. The land of Casamassima is rich in fertile soil and is crossed by the San Giorgio River, which flows through the Marced Forest.
Origin of the name
The village of Casamassima was probably founded by Quintus Fabius Maximus Verrucosus during the Punic Wars, but it could also derive from a translation of "larger house." However, the name of Casamassima derives from a camp of the Massimo family.
History
Casamassima had a very modest beginning as a Roman camp, but since then it has seen many developments. The first official document dates back to the Placiti Cassinesi of the 10th century, which dealt with a morgengabio, a Lombard custom that consisted of the part of the goods that the husband donated to his wife the morning after the wedding.
For many centuries, Casamassima was under the control of many Puglian lords and was dependent on other countries such as Conversano and Acquaviva delle Fonti. However, the city increased in importance over the centuries, and this is evidenced by the castle in the historic center of Casamassima.
The ancient village dates back to the 15th century and developed around a Norman tower, which was later expanded, becoming a castle.
= Attack of Louis the Great =
An interesting note in the history of Casamassima is the attack by Louis I of Hungary in 1347, following the killing of his brother Andrew, consort of Joanna I of Naples. Joanna I, despite the support of Pope Clement VI, fled to Provence. In the province of Bari, the main supporter of Queen Joanna was Pipino, Palatine Count of Altamura, but was unsuccessful against the Hungarian army, which conquered all the territories where it arrived. While Bari, Palo del Colle, and Corato resisted strongly against Louis I, Rutigliano and Casamassima also began to organize themselves to face the Hungarian army.
In conclusion, Casamassima is a city that proudly preserves its history and cultural heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in Puglian tradition and enjoy the surrounding natural landscapes. If you have the opportunity to visit, Casamassima is waiting for you!
