Montesano sulla Marcellana

Located 850 meters above sea level, Montesano sulla Marcellana is the highest village in the Vallo di Diano and represents a true oasis of well-being and history in the heart of the Campania Apennines, on the border with Basilicata. Surrounded by centuries-old forests, pastures and springs of oligomineral water, this charming town grew out of the need, in the Middle Ages, to escape the unhealthy air of the valley swamps. It is no coincidence that the name itself, "Montesano", evokes the wholesomeness of the air and the purity of its waters.

An ancient origin between history and legends

Its roots go back to the early Middle Ages, when the survivors of the destroyed Marcellinum took refuge in the hills after the Saracen ravages of the 10th century. The village is officially mentioned as early as 1086 and appears in the documents of the Norman King Roger II in 1131. Since then, the fiefdom passed through the hands of noble families such as the Sanseverino, Pelagalli and de Ponziaco families, experiencing ups and downs over the centuries amid wars, famines, earthquakes and political uprisings, such as those that broke out during the Neapolitan Republic of 1799 and on the occasion of the Plebiscite of 1860.

Unspoiled nature and rejuvenating spas

Montesano is now synonymous with unspoiled nature and sustainable tourism. A little further downstream is Cerreta-Cognola Regional Park, an extensive forest where deer, fallow deer and wild boar live in the wild. Heading up toward the town, the Santo Stefano spa area offers oligomineral waters with healing properties, set in a green setting with trails, health trails and breathtaking panoramic views.

A historic center among faith, art and tradition

The village retains a charming medieval old town, dominated by the neo-Gothic church of Sant'Anna with its tall spires, the architectural symbol of the village. Don't miss: The Abbey of Santa Maria di Cadossa, a spiritual place of millennial origin; The Civic Museum, which tells the story of peasant life and artisan traditions; The 16th-century Capuchin Convent; And numerous historic churches such as Sant'Andrea, Madonna di Loreto, Sant'Antonio Abate, and Assunta, which hold works of art and devotional testimonies.

To complete the experience, the ancient noble palaces tell the story of the families that ruled the area, while the Grotto of St. Michael the Archangel, nestled in the woods, evokes the Lombard cults linked to the figure of the Archangel.

Culture, events and authentic flavors

Montesano is also a place of living traditions: The Festival of lagane e fasuli or sazicchia arrustuta in August, to taste local specialties; The Feast of St. Francis with the "Supper of the Poverello," a community event that unites faith and solidarity; A calendar full of religious festivals and historical re-enactments that enliven the village squares.

Slow tourism and authenticity

Perfect for those seeking tranquility, trekking and authentic experiences, Montesano is an ideal destination for lovers of mountains, spas, history and good food. Amidst the forests and paths of the Maddalena Apennines, crystal-clear waters and atmospheres of other times, the village offers a journey between memory, nature and well-being, suspended between earth and sky.