Among the Dauni mountains, in the province of Foggia, there is a small village, one of the most beautiful in Italy and orange flag of the Touring Club of Italy, with a very evocative name: Pietramontecorvino.
Of Byzantine origin, the village was called for centuries "Montecorvino" but during its very long history it experienced the fury of the Norman raids that almost completely destroyed it, so much so as to push its inhabitants to take refuge in Petra, a small town not far away. For this reason, and to commemorate that tragic event, in 1861 the town took the name of Pietramontecorvino.
Of its medieval past, the city still retains traces in the historic center, called Terra Vecchia by the inhabitants, where, among twisted and narrow streets, it is possible to admire the small and sober houses built in tuff, a material obtained by digging into the rocks of which the territory abounds.
Circular in shape, the historic center was fortified with towers and high defensive walls of which today only three gates remain: the door of Santa Caterina, the Portella and the Porta Alta, as well as a Norman Tower, called by the inhabitants "Torre del diavolo" , composed of a quadrangular crenellated tower and the only tower-house still standing. The tower is about thirty meters high and stands majestically on the Apennine ridge.
Of particular value is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta (12th century) which has a beautiful side portal with a triple pointed arch, a loggia, an external staircase and the main portal dating back to the 18th century. A curiosity about this church: its original orientation, with the altar facing east, was literally overturned in the thirteenth century. Inside, the Renaissance chapel, the high altar in Baroque style and the bell tower, probably of medieval origin, are very interesting.
Do not miss the Palazzo Ducale, of thirteenth-century origin, which has the Anjou coat of arms on the facade and is connected to the Norman Tower by a mighty stone wall. Built on three floors, the palace shows an elegant entrance, embellished with a mask, which introduces the audience hall. Noteworthy is the hanging garden and the two internal courtyards.
All around the town, you can admire the countless caves carved into the friable rock, today used mainly as cellars, and from its highest point you can witness, at the right time, unforgettable sunsets crossed by the flight of birds that have found a ideal habitat. If you are a lover of nature and unspoiled landscapes, just outside the center, you can stroll in the cool of the Sant’Onofrio wood, famous for its monumental beech trees and the numerous water sources that will accompany you along the way.
Alberto Longo distanza 43,2 Km circa 43 min. in auto scopri la cantina
