Summonte
Summonte: a place full of history and natural beauty
Summonte is an Italian municipality in the province of Avellino, located on a hill on the eastern slopes of the Monti del Partenio that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below. The territory of Summonte is known for its ancient roots, as evidenced by the discovery of Oscan tombs from the pre-Roman era, and for the presence of one of the best-preserved castles in the area. In this article, we will discover the historical past and the monuments that make Summonte such a special place.
Physical Geography
Summonte is located in a privileged position, at over 700 meters above sea level, which allows you to enjoy a spectacular view of the valley below. The territory is characterized by the presence of the Monti del Partenio and a diverse flora and fauna, including olive trees, figs, apple trees, and grapevines.
History
The history of Summonte dates back to ancient times, as evidenced by the discovery of Oscan tombs from the pre-Roman era. The first historical document mentioning the village dates back to 769 when a Lombard patrician named Leo donated some territories to the Abbey of Montecassino, including the district of Summonte, which is identified as Sub Monte. During the Norman period, Summonte became a feud and was granted to Raone Malerba, a nobleman of Frankish origin. The families of Della Leonessa, Spinelli, Geronimo Albertino, and the Doria followed, who remained feudatories of Summonte until the end of the abolition of feudalism in 1806 under Giuseppe Bonaparte. During the Bourbon period, Summonte was the seat of an active carbonari nucleus.
Monuments and places of interest
The Tower
The historic center of Summonte hosts one of the best-preserved towers in the area, the Summonte Castle, which stands on a hill overlooking the valley below. The tower, which had the function of defending the Campanina road, still shows today the signs of the different historical periods that characterized the territory.
Church of Santa Maria del Preposito
The Church of Santa Maria del Preposito is another important monument in Summonte, dating back to the late medieval period. The structure has been restored over the centuries, undergoing various modifications, but still retains late medieval architectural elements.
Sanctuary of Maria SS. di Montevergine
The Sanctuary of Maria SS. di Montevergine, located a few kilometers from the center of Summonte, is one of the most important places of worship in the Campania region. Founded in 1025, the church was originally dedicated to the cult of Santa Maria degli Angeli. Over the centuries, the structure underwent various modifications and expansions, assuming its current Baroque form.
Nature around Summonte
Summonte is surrounded by nature, with a flora and fauna that make it an ideal place for hiking and outdoor activities. Among the main natural attractions in the area are the Monti del Partenio, Lake Laceno, and Monte Vergine.
Conclusions
Summonte is a Campanian municipality that offers panoramic views of the valley below and a rich medieval history, reflected in its best-preserved monuments such as the Tower and the Sanctuary of Maria SS. di Montevergine. The surrounding area is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, thanks to the presence of the Monti del Partenio and Lake Laceno. If you are looking for an authentic experience in the unspoiled Campania, Summonte is the ideal place.
