King Roger II of Sicily recognized the immense strategic value of this Apennine highland when he selected it to host the renowned Assizes of Ariano. Historically a powerful county and bishopric, the town of 22,517 residents guards the farthest eastern edge of Campania, directly bordering Apulia. In fact, it was officially named Ariano di Puglia until 1930.
Today, this upland settlement is celebrated for a different kind of mastery: its historic maiolica ceramics. The intricate artistry of this local pottery remains a compelling reason to navigate the mountain routes that have defined the area since the Early Middle Ages.
Pizza Napoletana · Caprese
Compare hotels, B&Bs and holiday homes on Booking.com for your dates.
Next up: Saint Otto, patron of an ancient fair with special privileges, Tuesday 23 March
Nearest airport: Napoli Capodichino, 73 km away
No events match these filters.
📅 Every year, on 23 March
Ariano Irpino celebrates Saint Otto on 23 March; between the 17th and 19th centuries, the patronal fair dedicated to him had even older origins than the others and enjoyed special privileges, until it was permanently suppressed because it often coincided with Holy Week.
Straight-line distances from the town centre. Tap a point to open its page.
The closest destinations covered by our editors, with straight-line distance.
