Olevano sul Tusciano
Olevano sul Tusciano: a small town with a rich history
Olevano sul Tusciano is a charming scattered town in the province of Salerno in Campania, with a population of just under 7000 residents. Located in the valley of the Tusciano river, the town borders with other cities such as Acerno, Campagna, Eboli, and Battipaglia. The area is classified as seismic zone 2, which means it has medium seismicity. In this article, we will explore the history of Olevano sul Tusciano and discover how this ancient settlement developed.
Physical Geography
Territory
The territory of Olevano sul Tusciano includes the valley of the Tusciano river. It is surrounded by mountains such as Monte Costa Calda, Monte Molaro, and Monte Raione, which separate it from the city of Campagna. The Monti di Eboli delimit the border with Eboli and Battipaglia, while to the west it borders with Montecorvino Rovella.
Climate
The climate of Olevano sul Tusciano is mild throughout the year. The nearest weather station is in Battipaglia, where average winter temperatures are around 13 degrees Celsius and summer temperatures are around 29 degrees Celsius.
History
Origins of Olevano
The history of Olevano sul Tusciano dates back to prehistoric times. Scholars have found numerous archaeological finds that show human presence in the area since antiquity. It is believed that the Etruscan colonization of Campania and commercial contacts with the Greek communities of Posidonia influenced the history of Olevano sul Tusciano.
The Etruscans baptized the valley of the Tusciano river calling it "Tuscianum" and the Greeks integrated the word "Olivo" in the Greek name of the city, "Olibanon". Over the centuries, the city underwent numerous changes in name, including "Olivanum" and "Olibanum", before becoming "Lo Levano" in 1500.
In Roman times, Roman armies overpowered the Etruscans and the Greeks, consolidating their authority over the entire Italian peninsula. The conversion to Christianity of local populations was profound and contributed to creating a strong religious tradition in Olevano sul Tusciano.
Reflections of history on the cultural landscape
Today, the history of the city is still present in the fascinating cultural landscape of Olevano sul Tusciano. There are numerous monuments and historical sites that visitors can explore, such as the Church of San Pietro, dating back to 1633, and the Norman Tower, which was built in medieval times. The city also has several unique cultural traditions, such as the Livestock Fair, which is held every year on the occasion of the feast of the Madonna delle Grazie. During the festival, the town is invaded by shepherds who bring their livestock to sell or exchange.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Olevano sul Tusciano is an ancient Italian town that has a rich history and a unique culture. The city is located in a beautiful area and has many tourist attractions that make it an ideal destination for visitors. If you are interested in the history of ancient Italy or simply appreciate natural beauty, Olevano sul Tusciano is the right place for you.
