Orta Nova
Orta Nova: the heart of Tavoliere delle Puglie
Hello friends, today we will talk about Orta Nova, a municipality located in the province of Foggia in Puglia, Italy. Orta Nova, which until 1862 was called only Orta, is a city with a population of approximately 16,779 people. It is located in the heart of Tavoliere delle Puglie and is about 24.7 km southeast of Foggia.
History of Orta Nova
Orta Nova has a long and interesting history that begins in 1142 when the toponym of Orta was first mentioned in notarial documents. In 1184, Orta was described as a small village that depended on the Abbey of Venosa.
In the 13th century, Federico II of Swabia built an imperial residence in Orta Nova, under the supervision of the architect Anseramo da Trani. In this residence, Federico II issued many edicts in 1240, which were then collected in the Register of the Angioin Chancellery.
During the 14th century, the city was ruled by Manfredi of Sicily who issued the "Datum Orte", the act with which Manfredonia was founded. In 1269, the Masseria Regia was entrusted to Egidio de Ogale. In the following years, Carlo I d'Angiò was concerned with the restructuring of the castle of Orta Nova and the Masseria Regia.
1272-1273 was a difficult time for Orta Nova, as the city was abandoned by its inhabitants. Carlo d'Angiò ordered them to return and eliminated taxes as an incentive. Roberto de Sancto Arnulfo was the castle's custodian.
From the early years of the 14th century, the city was governed by the Aragonese dynasty. Orta Nova became a fiefdom of the Caracciolo family along with Cerignola in 1418. In 1429, Queen Giovanna II of Naples established the "mena" to oversee the needs of shepherds who drove flocks to pasture in Puglia and Capitanata. In 1548, the "locatio d'Orta" was established.
In 1611, the fiefdom was purchased by the Jesuits. In 1645, the Jesuits invested 1500 ducats in the construction of the church and the expansion of the palace, turning it into a convent. In 1731, the building was completed and was composed of an "L" shape. When the Jesuits were expelled in 1767, the fiefdom returned to the crown.
Geography of Orta Nova
Orta Nova is located in the heart of Tavoliere delle Puglie, a vast plain southeast of Foggia. It is surrounded by agricultural land and hills.
Life in Orta Nova today
Today, Orta Nova is a city that offers many opportunities to its residents. Agriculture is still one of the main economic activities of the city. Here, wheat, tomatoes, olives, grapes, almonds, and many other products are grown.
Orta Nova is also an active center for oil and gas production. Furthermore, many tourists come to admire the natural beauties of the city, including the beautiful Adriatic Sea, which is only 20 minutes away.
Finally, the historic center of Orta Nova offers many attractions, including the Matrice Church and the Tower, as well as restaurants, bars, and nightclubs for entertainment.
Conclusions
Orta Nova is a city full of history and tradition, offering different opportunities to its residents and visitors. Its location in the heart of Tavoliere delle Puglie makes it a perfect base to discover the beauties of the region, while its history, culture, and architectural beauty make it an excellent travel destination. Come to visit us, we will be happy to welcome you to Orta Nova!
