Summonte: the Village of stone, wind, and silence in Irpinia

Perched at 750 meters above sea level, at the foot of the Partenio Regional Park, Summonte is one of the most enchanting villages of Irpinia, where time seems suspended among ancient stones, mountain silences, and endless panoramas overlooking the Sabato Valley.

Summonte has very ancient origins, as evidenced by the remains of its castle and its original name Submontis, indicating the village at the foot of Mount Vallatrone. The first historic nucleus was the Grangia of Santa Maria del Preposito, dating back to the 10th century and later ceded to Montevergine in 1174. The monastic presence promoted the cultivation of chestnuts, vines, olives, hazelnuts, flax, and mulberries, also fostering the growth of the settlement, consolidated in Norman times. The castle, already mentioned in 1094, became a military garrison under Raone di Fraineta. The historic center developed along three main streets, revolving around the Angevin Tower (13th–14th century), today home to the Civic Museum with medieval weapons and artifacts. Notable are the 16th-century residences, the Arch of San Nicola with its shrine, and, in front of the town hall, the majestic century-old lime tree, 34 meters tall, listed among Italy’s Monumental Trees.

What to See in Summonte

The medieval village of Summonte preserves a rich architectural heritage, with 16th-century palaces featuring inner courtyards and monumental entrances. The Angevin Tower, 16 meters high, hosts an exhibition on the Doria family and offers a wide panoramic view from its terrace. The Mother Church of San Nicola di Bari, in Baroque style, houses works of art and a fine polychrome marble altar. The Arch of San Nicola, the ancient gate of the village, features a shrine with the image of the patron saint. The majestic lime tree, 37 meters high, is a symbol of the community.

The Via dei Monti is a 6 km nature trail through woods, hawks, and orchids. Historic fountains and the old washhouse tell the story of daily life in the past. The Church of Sant’Andrea (1559) preserves frescoes dedicated to Saint Vitus. Finally, Piazza Matarazzo, once a crossroads of the Silk Road, recalls the cultivation of mulberries and silkworm breeding.

Traditions and Gastronomy

Summonte is rich in cultural events and food traditions. Among the most awaited is “Sentieri Mediterranei”, an international ethnic music festival held between June and September, featuring world-renowned artists such as Noa, Youssou N’Dour, Hevia, and Mario Biondi. In October, the Chestnut Festival of the Partenio attracts thousands of visitors, celebrating one of the area’s symbolic products.

Local specialties include tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms or black truffle, and the delicious montanara, a fried pizza with an unmistakable flavor. Other traditional events include the Sagra degli Strozzapreti in the hamlet of Starze (first Sunday of September) and the Feast of San Nicola di Bari on December 6, with the evocative re-enactment of bread distribution, linked to an ancient legend. Finally, the Romantic Night, an event celebrating love with music, food, and soft lights, enhances the village’s emotional charm, making it a lively and welcoming destination all year round.

What to See Around Summonte

Thanks to its panoramic position, Summonte is an ideal starting point for exploring Irpinia. Nearby are Mercogliano, with the Abbey of Montevergine, an important Marian pilgrimage site; Ospedaletto d’Alpinolo, a village of artists and craftsmen; and Avellino, a city rich in history, museums, and gastronomic traditions. A little further away, the villages of Castelvetere sul Calore, Gesualdo, and Montefalcione offer other gems of the province.

photo credits Diego Capone