Calitri, Historic hilltop commune in Province of Avellino, Italy
Calitri sits at about 530 meters elevation and spreads across multiple levels with narrow stone streets connected by marble staircases beneath ancient arches. The town displays typical southern Italian building patterns with closely packed homes clinging to the hillside.
The 1980 earthquake damaged much of Calitri and triggered extensive rebuilding efforts that reshaped the town's character and layout. This reconstruction fundamentally altered how the community is organized today.
The town honors its patron saint, San Canius, with processions and celebrations held on May 25th that fill the streets with local tradition. These festivities remain central to how residents connect with their community identity.
The town sits in Campania's hills and connects to larger centers by public transport, though exploring it involves steep paths and staircases. Sturdy shoes and a willingness to climb are helpful for getting around.
The Neviera, an ancient ice storage chamber in the Gagliano district, extends about 15 meters below ground and demonstrates how people once preserved food. This underground structure reveals a forgotten part of daily life before modern refrigeration existed.
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