Pimonte
Pimonte, a Commune immersed in nature
Pimonte is a small Commune located in the Campania region of Italy, within the metropolitan city of Naples. With a population of 5802 inhabitants, the town is situated in a hilly area, surrounded by the Lattari Mountains to the south and east and Mount Pendolo to the northeast. The Commune offers a spectacular view of Mount Vesuvius and the Gulf of Naples.
The history of Pimonte through the centuries
The name of the Commune derives from the Latin "apud montēs" which means "near the mountains". During the era of the Republic of Amalfi (839 - 1131), the Normans and the Angevin Sovereigns in particular, used to assign lands in the northwestern part of the Duchy of Amalfi as a reward for military actions and administrative services. In 1292, Pimonte, Le Franche and Pino were granted as fief to Manfredo Maletta, Count of Mineo, and subsequently in 1302 to Bartolomeo Siginulfo, Count of Telese Terme.
Over the centuries, possession of the lands of Pimonte has passed through numerous noble families in the Naples region, until it came to the Miroballo family who held them until 1528. After a series of convoluted changes in ownership, the fiefs of Pimonte, Le Franche and Positano were requisitioned by Alfonso III d'Avalos.
Places of interest in Pimonte
Pimonte boasts a series of historical churches that are a true celebration of art and architecture. Among the main ones are the Church of San Michele Arcangelo, the Church of San Nicola, the Church of the Beata Maria Vergine Immacolata and the Church of San Sebastiano.
But Pimonte is not only churches and architecture. The town also offers CAI trails of the Zappino foundation, the Grotta di San Catello and the Belvedere Convent. The mountain cross is another must-see attraction, thanks to its spectacular panoramic view of the hill.
The community of Pimonte
The population of Pimonte has grown steadily in recent decades, from around 4000 inhabitants in the 1960s to almost 6000 today. The Commune is known for its lively traditions, such as the Living Nativity Scene, the Tuesday of Monte Coppola and the Tammurriata of the Lattari Mountains.
Today, the economy of Pimonte is mainly based on agriculture and tourism. The Commune is famous for its dairy products, such as mozzarella, provola and ricotta. Cured meats are also an important source of income, as are local fruits and vegetables. Wine is another local delight, with the Gragnano DOC area producing a high-quality wine.
In summary, Pimonte is a city full of life, immersed in nature and rich in local culture and traditions. If you love art, architecture and good food, you can't miss this hidden gem of Campania.
