Zungoli (Irpinia): a must-see village nominated for Borgo dei Borghi

A village to discover in Irpinia

Zungoli is a compact historic village in the Irpinia area that has recently attracted attention for its cultural and natural heritage. Positioned near the Campania–Puglia border and surrounded by hills like Monte Molara, Monticelli and Toppo dell'Anno, it offers typical medieval streets, stone houses and scenic viewpoints worth exploring.

What to see in Zungoli

Key attractions that reveal the village's identity include:

• Tuff caves: an extensive network of underground cavities beneath the historic center. Historically multifunctional, today some caves are used to age cheese, giving them a central role in local production.
• Historic center: narrow lanes, stone architecture and views that trace the settlement’s development from medieval times to the present.
• Convent of San Francesco: a religious complex built over earlier structures, repeatedly rebuilt after earthquakes and located just outside the old walls.
• Norman castle: a medieval fortress later converted into a noble residence, one of the village’s distinctive landmarks.
• Ancient routes: the area was crossed by historic roads that connected the village to important Roman routes such as the Via Appia and the Traiana.

Local flavours and specialties

Food is a major draw for visitors. Highlights include:

• Caciocavallo Podolico aged in caves: a robust cheese matured in underground chambers that impart unique aromas.
• Traditional meats (rabbit, lamb), cured meats, cheeses and locally produced olive oil.
• Home-style dishes such as fusilli pasta, polenta, cianfotta and pizza cooked in terracotta pans.

Practical tips for visiting

• Best time to visit: spring and autumn for mild weather and picturesque countryside.
• Suggested itinerary: allow half a day for the historic center and caves, and a full day for surrounding trails and food-related visits.
• What to bring: comfortable shoes for cobbled streets, a light jacket for cooler cave temperatures, and a camera for scenic shots.
• Recommended experiences: guided tastings, tours of cheese-aging sites, and attendance at local festivals to discover traditions firsthand.

Zungoli combines history, landscape and gastronomy — an excellent stop for travelers seeking an authentic Irpinian village experience.