One of the most incredible aspects of the boot is certainly the historical-artistic one: from north to south the landscape is enriched by timeless wonders. Among the most fascinating works we cannot fail to mention the many forts which for centuries have offered protection to the Italic peoples. Among these is the Castle of Limatola, a small town in the Benevento area that a Christmas he is living his best period.
From the Osci to the present day
The small town of Limatola has a very remote history that begins between the seventh and sixth centuries BC with the Osci, a civilization that populated much of the South before the advent of the Romans and Sannitis. With the arrival of the latter, the small town of Limatola passed under the Samnite dominion, assuming more and more importance. The Romans themselves, Lombards, Angevins and Normans followed one another. During these centuries, both for its strategic position and for the fertility of its lands, the city grew more and more. It is in fact located in the heart of Campania, a few steps from the river Volturno. This has made the soil particularly fertile, and its name derives from silt, that is, a flourishing and muddy land.
Limatola's growth took a hit with the plague of 1656 which killed and caused almost 2/3 of its population to flee. Since then the city lost more and more importance, but certainly not its charm due especially to the medieval castle, particularly impressive in the Christmas time.
The Castle of Limatola
Around the year XNUMX i Normans they had an imposing fortress built close to the town, in the highest part of the hill. The Limatola Castle was initially supposed to play a purely defensive function, offering shelter to the king and his subjects. However, thanks to its position, it was almost impossible to wage a siege against. The only way to reach the castle was through a complicated system of narrow streets that climbed the hillside. This changed the functions of the structure to simple (and flashy) place of residence.
Over the years it has undergone various restorations and interventions, always influenced by the art of the reference period. Inside there are elements Gothic, neoclassical and barocco. Always disputed by the most important lords of Southern Italy, the Castle of Limatola houses works of absolute prestige signed by various authors such as Francis of Tolentino. The various churches of the village are also very suggestive, such as the Church of St. Blaise , Church of the Annunciation.
A princely Christmas
But as mentioned above, it is during the Christmas period that the castle attracts thousands of visitors. For years, in fact, between November and December, it has been held inside a fascinating market enriched by various exhibitions and shows. An appointment aimed at making people known the culinary wonders of the province of Benevento (and partly Caserta given its proximity), and beyond. Artists and craftsmen take advantage of the location to show their works to the public, transforming the corridors and internal squares of the castle into a real journey into the art of Campania. A journey to experience with a nice hot glass of mulled wine and a cone of roasted chestnuts in your hand. Because things must always be done properly.
