Pietramontecorvino – a medieval village in Puglia

An Italian municipality of 2,391 inhabitants in the province of Foggia, Puglia, Pietramontecorvino is a small town known for its strong historical ties and for having preserved its medieval features, which qualify it as part of the circuit of The Most Beautiful Villages in Italy.

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The territory and history of Pietramontecorvino

Situated on a rocky spur overlooking the Guado degli Uncini, in the Subappennino Dauno, Pietramontecorvino is said to have originated from the episcopal seat of Montecorvino, destroyed by Roger the Norman, who forced its citizens to move to Pietra.

The fief, initially belonging to the Norman lords Guglielmo and Ruggero de Parisio, later passed into the hands of several feudal lords such as William II of Villehardouin, Charles Martel, and Charles de Cabannis. After the destruction of the diocese of Montecorvino, the settlement was sacked by the Aragonese and eventually governed by Garcia Cavaniglia and his son.

Montecorvino was completely destroyed by the earthquake of 1456, and Pietra too remained under feudal domination until 1806. Only in 1862 was the official name of the town established as Pietramontecorvino.

Monuments and places of interest

The town of Pietramontecorvino shows its direct link with history especially through its old quarter, Terravecchia, which still preserves medieval architecture with tuff houses and the remains of the ogival arch belonging to one of the three original gates.

Despite its small size, the town boasts three main landmarks:

• The Norman Tower, about 25 meters high, square in plan with five levels. Originally accessed via a masonry staircase about 7 meters above the ground, it has been restored and is now open to the public.
• The Ducal Palace, a three-story building not far from the tower.
• The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, probably built in the 12th century, which combines various styles due to later renovations and features a typically medieval bell tower.

Curiosities about the village

In addition to being recognized as one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages and hosting numerous festivals dedicated to saints such as St. Anthony Abbot and St. Mary of Constantinople, Pietramontecorvino is also linked to the legend of Sichelgaita, a Lombard noblewoman renowned for her courage in battle. It is said that she blesses with healing those who encounter her.

The village also offers the chance to taste typical local dishes, such as troccoli (a type of fresh pasta) and pane cotto.

How to reach Pietramontecorvino

The town, located near other Apulian villages, is easily accessible:

• By car: via the SS 17 road.
• By train: to Lucera, then continue by bus directly to the village.

Don’t miss the chance to discover the history of this medieval gem!