CASCA Hills: a project to enhance the Samnite villages
History, nature and legends to enhance the cultural heritage of Ceppaloni, Apollosa, San Leucio del Sannio, Chianche and Arpaise and build integrated projects
2' min read
2' min read
The 'Le Colline CASCA' project aims to create a territorial network for the enhancement of the villages of Ceppaloni (lead municipality), Apollosa, San Leucio del Sannio, Chianche and Arpaise. This initiative, promoted by the municipality of Ceppaloni, aims to respond to Scabec's public notice of 26 October 2023, uniting the bordering municipalities under a single vision of cultural and tourist development.
The name CASCA is an acronym that brings together the initials of the participating municipalities, taking the form of a verb that reflects the many initiatives envisaged in the project. This hilly area, located between the Calle del Sabato and the Serretelle stream, is rich in history, nature and legends, including that of the Benevento witches who found refuge under the Benevento Walnut.
The municipalities of the CASCA network are immersed in a natural environment of great beauty, characterised by forests, flora and wildlife. Among the species present are foxes, wild boars, beech martens, badgers and hedgehogs, offering nature lovers an unspoilt and varied environment.
Historically, this area has witnessed the passage of the Irpino-Sannitic peoples, Romans and Lombards, and preserves numerous sites of interest. In Ceppaloni, for example, there is the medieval castle, the Taverna di Rotola, several historical buildings and numerous churches, including that of San Nicola Vescovo and the former convent now housing the town hall.
In Apollosa, visitors can admire the castle ruins, the ducal palace with the Chapel of St Joseph and several ancient churches. San Leucio del Sannio, on the other hand, offers monuments such as the Palazzo Zamparelli and the Church of San Leucio, dating back to the 12th century.
