Savignano Irpino is a village with an ancient and authentic soul, nestled in the deep green of the Cervaro-Miscano Valley, on the slopes of Mount Sant'Angelo. Its territory, rich in springs and unspoiled landscapes, stretches among coniferous and oak forests, nature trails and paths laden with history, such as the ancient tratturo Pescasseroli-Candela, which recounts centuries of transhumance, grazing and agro-pastoral culture. Here, time seems to flow slowly, accompanied by the sound of water and the scent of underbrush, in an atmosphere that regenerates body and spirit.
Suspended between Campania and Puglia, the village is spread out in a panoramic position between the Tombola and Calvario hills, elegantly overlooking the Cervaro Valley. Its perfectly preserved historic center recounts centuries of human events and dominations, from the Longobard and Norman presence to the Aragonese and Spanish influence. It was during the reign of Tancred of Altavilla that Savignano entered the chronicles: in 1193 Governor Sarolo Guarna was executed on the castle tower, an episode that left a deep imprint on local memory. Later, in 1445, the noble Guevara family transformed the medieval manor into a stately residence, a sign of an era of renewed splendor.
The village then gradually expanded over the centuries, first toward Porta Grande in the 16th century, then along Corso Vittorio Emanuele and into the Calvary and Old Fountain districts in the 18th century. Also dating from this period is the elegant Palazzo Orsini, now the seat of the municipality, commissioned by Pope Benedict XIII as a place of welcome for pilgrims. Religious architecture, elegant and sober, is evidenced by the majestic Mother Church dedicated to St. Nicholas and St. Anne, patroness of the village, whose veneration culminates in one of the village's most heartfelt festivals in late July. Inside, the chapel dedicated to the saint holds a valuable artistic heritage, recently restored. Completing the sacred heritage are the Church of Purgatory with its soaring bell tower and the Church of Our Lady of Grace, small jewels of faith and folk art.
Emblematic of rural life in the past is the Angelica Fountain, a historic spring around which the daily and social life of the village developed, when water was carried by hand by "acquaiuoli". A symbol of collective memory, today it is also a decorative and identity element, embellished with three cast-iron ducks. There is no shortage of breathtaking views such as the Belvedere Tombola, overlooking the valley, or naturalistic spots such as the Laghetto Aguglia, a body of water fed by fresh and sulfur springs, in a landscape that enchants in every season.
But Savignano Irpino is not only scenic beauty and history: it is also flavor, peasant culture and ancient knowledge passed down in the kitchen. Here, gastronomic tradition is an integral part of local identity. Caciocavallo podolico cheese, smoked or fresh, is among the protagonists, along with handmade pasta - from orecchiette to cicatielli - prepared at festivals with dedication by the women of the village. The orecchiette festival is the signature event of Savignano's summer, drawing residents, tourists and many returning emigrants. The village fills with fragrances and smiles, with outdoor tables and typical dishes such as "laganiell e fasul," the "savignanese breakfast" with potatoes and peppers, soffritto soup or the rich, country-style "ciambott".
Savignano Irpino is a treasure chest of experiences to be lived slowly: strolling through its silent streets, being surprised by a sudden panorama, listening to the stories of the elderly, smelling freshly baked bread, immersing yourself in its thousand-year history made up of castles, fountains and ancient dwellings. Here, where life flows simple but intense, every stone tells and every season gives different colors. This is why since 2016 it has joined the club of "The Most Beautiful Villages in Italy": a well-deserved recognition for a place that preserves the authentic soul of Irpinia.
