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.
Near Ariano Irpino
The closest destinations covered by our editors, with straight-line distance.