Valle Agricola
Valle Agricola: a village with ancient origins
Valle Agricola is a town in the province of Caserta in Campania, with a population of 756 inhabitants. It is a village with ancient origins that has undergone several transformations over the years and has experienced dramatic moments, such as the rebellion during the fascist tax pressure and World War II.
The history of the town dates back to the Samnite era when it became a mandatory stop for shepherds coming from the lower Lete valley towards the mountain pastures. This has been confirmed by the discovery of several Samnite tombs. Later, it was a vico of the Roman empire and in the Middle Ages, the center was fortified by the Lombards.
In the 14th century, the citizens of Valle pledged allegiance to the Pandone counts, lords of Prata, and in 1814 the village obtained administrative autonomy. In 1863, the name of the municipality was changed to its current name, and in 1874 a new road to Ailano was built to replace the one that passed through Prata.
During World War II, the town experienced dramatic moments, but in 1980 the people of Valle refused the name change to "Valle Matese".
Symbols of the town
The municipal coat of arms is first found in the onciario cadastre of 1743. On a silver field, there are four blue dots that symbolize the four districts through which the village was formed: Colle, Piscupanne, Pizzuni, Terra. The inscription V.D.P. recalls the ancient name (Valle di Piana).
Monuments and places of interest
There are several monuments and places of interest in Valle Agricola.
The Church of the Holy Cross, also dedicated to the Most Holy Annunciation, was built together with a small hospital in an isolated position, along the road that leads to Prata. It has a remarkable seventeenth-century altarpiece and a fresco depicting the Blessed Creator dating back to the fifteenth century.
The Church of San Sebastiano is an ancient parish church with a simple and decent appearance. The baptismal font dates back to 1574.
The Pandone Tower is a slender circular watchtower overlooking the village. It was erected in the fifteenth century by the Pandone counts, as evidenced by the stone coat of arms located outside the structure.
Society
Demographic evolution
Valle Agricola has undergone several demographic changes over the years.
Traditions and folklore
The traditional women's costume consists of a skirt, an embroidered shirt, a gold-embroidered corset, and a headscarf (mappa).
The worship of Saint Rocco and Saint Nicandro is highly felt.
Economy
The economy of Valle Agricola is predominantly agricultural in nature.
Bibliography
If you are interested in delving into the history of Valle Agricola, you can consult the following texts:
External links
If you want to learn more about the municipality of Valle Agricola, you can visit the following website:
