Sicignano degli Alburni
Welcome to Sicignano degli Alburni!
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about Sicignano degli Alburni, an Italian municipality located in the province of Salerno, in Campania. This town is inhabited by about 3,077 people and is located between the Tanagro valley and the Alburni Mountains, within the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park.
History
But let's talk about the history of Sicignano. It is said that the name of the municipality derives from Siccio, a tribune of the plebs elected in the 4th century BC, who was sent to fight the Sabines who were plundering the Roman countryside. Unfortunately, according to the story of Livy, Siccio was killed by treachery on the initiative of the decemvirs who feared his speeches for the restoration of the rights of the plebs.
The first documentary attestation of Sicignano dates back to 1086, when the Norman Count Asclettino of Sicignano, lord of Polla, donated to the Abbey of Cava dei Tirreni the monastery of San Pietro and the church of Santa Caterina, located in "Polla". From 1811 to 1860, Sicignano was part of the administrative subdivision of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies of Postiglione, belonging to the district of Campagna. From 1860 to 1927, instead, during the Kingdom of Italy, Sicignano was part of the Postiglione district, belonging to the Campagna district.
Symbols
The municipality’s coat of arms was recognized by decree of the head of government on 29 October 1936. It consists of a blue background with a rocky mountain surmounted by a golden sun. The municipal banner, on the other hand, is a yellow flag and was granted to it by Presidential Decree on 22 June 2012.
Monuments and Places of Interest
Sicignano is a municipality rich in monuments and places of interest that are definitely worth a visit. Among the most important attractions are:
- Giusso Castle: The structure, dating back to the 11th century, is located on a hill and has been completely restored. Today, the castle hosts exhibitions and cultural events.
- Former Diocesan Seminary: Dating back to 1750, it is an important Baroque building located in the center of the village. Currently, the structure is used as a museum.
- Church of San Matteo and Santa Margherita: a Gothic architectural masterpiece dating back to the 14th century.
- Church of Santa Maria dei Serroni: dating back to the 15th century and is known for its splendid Baroque decorations.
- Monumental Fountain: A stone fountain dating back to 1824, located in the historic center of the village.
- Public Laundry: A beautiful example of popular architecture dating back to the early 20th century.
- Monument to the Fallen: A monument erected in honor of the fallen of the First and Second World Wars.
- Convent of the Capuchin Friars: dating back to the 15th century, it has been transformed into a museum after the restoration of some rooms.
Society
Demographic Evolution
The population of Sicignano has steadily increased over time. In 1861, in fact, the village had only 1,293 inhabitants, while today there are 3,077.
Ethnicities and Foreign Minorities
As of December 31st, 2007, 53 foreign citizens resided in Sicignano degli Alburni.
Religion
The majority of the population of Sicignano is of Catholic Christian faith. The municipality belongs to the homonymous parish of the diocese of Teggiano-Policastro and is divided into four parishes: San Giovanni Battista, Santa Maria dei Magi, San Matteo and Santa Margherita and Santissima Annunziata.
Anthropological Geography
Hamlets
Sicignano degli Alburni includes several hamlets, each of which offers something unique to see. Here are some of them:
- Castelluccio Cosentino: A small medieval center perched on an isolated peak, from which you can enjoy a wide view of the valleys of Sicignano and Tanagro.
- Galdo degli Alburni: An autonomous municipality until 1928, it is located at the foot of the Alburni Mountains (349 m above sea level) and is a few kilometers from the village of Sicignano.
- Scorzo: A modern village located at the confluence of the provincial road to Sicignano in the state road 19.
- Terranova (Sicignano degli Alburni): a minor hamlet located 2 km from the capital, at 600 m above sea level.
Conclusion
Here is my guide to Sicignano! This is a town that offers many attractions and kilometers of unspoiled nature to explore. I hope this information has been helpful and will help you plan your trip. If you have the chance, come visit Sicignano degli Alburni and let yourself be conquered by its beauty!
