Nusco, the village born on the valley of the Calore River

Of uncertain etymology, Nusco arose as a castrum between the 7th and 8th centuries, in a strategic position overlooking the valleys of the Ofanto and Calore rivers. The first historical document dates back to 1093, when the will of Bishop Amato mentions it as a civitas and episcopal seat: under his guidance, the population gathered around the castle and the first churches were built. Over the centuries, Nusco offered refuge to historical figures such as William, the last Duke of Apulia, and Manfred, the future King of Sicily. Between earthquakes and feudal dominations, the village today preserves 18th-century testimonies of art and history.

What to see in Nusco 

Nusco, lying at 914 meters on the Apennine watershed between the Ofanto and Calore valleys, is a compact and discreet village, rich in traditions and ancient memories. The bell tower of the cathedral, 33 meters high like the years of Christ, dominates the town and symbolizes Christianity, linked to its patron Amato, the first bishop. Of the original cathedral (11th century), the Romanesque crypt remains, with the bones of Amato and 16th-century frescoes; the interior features three naves, side chapels, a raised presbytery, choir, and baroque decorations.

The historic center develops from Porta Superiore, along Via Landone, Via Scarpitti, and Via Trinità, up to the cathedral square. Walking through, one encounters stone portals, noble coats of arms, loggias, cobbled alleys, and palaces of illustrious families such as Ebreo, De Paulis, Meluziis, and Del Giudice. Numerous religious buildings also stand out, including the Church of the Holy Trinity and that of San Giuseppe.

From the belvedere of Porta Molino and Via Coste, one enjoys an extraordinary panorama, from the Varco di Acerno to Mount Vulture, the Lucanian Apennines, and the Maiella. Outside the historic center, the Abbey of Fontigliano (12th century) and its antiquarium preserve Roman epigraphs of great historical interest, testimony to the village’s millenary heritage.

Events in Nusco

 In Nusco, religious and popular traditions mark the year with evocative events. The Festival of Bonfires, in the third week of January, celebrates Sant’Antuonu with propitiatory fires that warm the heart of the community. On Good Friday, the alleys of the village host the moving representation of the Via Crucis. On May 28 and September 30, St. Amato, patron and protector of Nusco, is celebrated. Between July and August, the feast of St. Anthony of Padua (July 28–29), the Emigrant Festival (August 1), and the festivities of the Assumption of Mary (August 14–15) and Our Lady of Mount Carmel (August 22–23) take place. These moments combine devotion, folklore, and community spirit, keeping alive the ancient traditions of the village.

What to see around Nusco 

The surroundings of Nusco are rich in history, nature, and traditions. Just a few kilometers away stands the Abbey of Goleto, a 12th-century monastic complex, and the village of Sant’Angelo dei Lombardi with its Lombard castle. Toward Bagnoli Irpino lies the enchanting Laceno Lake, a summer and winter destination. In Montella, the Convent of San Francesco a Folloni and the sources of the Calore River are worth a visit. The villages of Castelfranci and Castelvetere sul Calore tell the story of Irpinian winemaking traditions. Not to be missed are Calitri, with its stone-built village, and the WWF Oasis of Senerchia, immersed among waterfalls and trails.

Cover photo credits: Giambattista Lazazzera / Shutterstock.com