· IT

Benevento

Benevento, Campania, Italy

Journey to the Heart of Ancient Samnium: Benevento, Italy Nestled amidst rolling hills in the Campania region of Southern Italy, Benevento whispers tales of ancient empires and forgotten magic. More than just a charming…

#Historic city#Roman architecture#Cultural heritage#Medieval town#Italian cuisine

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Benevento.

Top Hotels in Benevento

Top Flights to Benevento

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Benevento.

Tours

Exploring Benevento's Historic Center

Discover the rich history of Benevento by exploring its historic center, home to many ancient buildings and stunning architecture.

Shopping

Shopping at Corso Garibaldi

Experience the vibrant shopping street of Benevento, offering a variety of shops and boutiques.

Outdoor

Picnic at Parco del Sannio

Relax and enjoy a picnic in the beautiful Parco del Sannio, surrounded by nature.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Benevento.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

Information not available.

Languages

Italian, Italian

Average weather

Benevento

Jan

10°2°

Feb

11°2°

Mar

14°4°

Apr

18°7°

May

23°11°

Jun

28°16°

Jul

31°19°

Aug

31°19°

Sep

27°16°

Oct

21°12°

Nov

15°7°

Dec

11°3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Benevento.

What people love

Benevento, located in the Campania region of Italy, offers a unique and charming destination for travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Benevento:

Historical and Cultural Attractions: Benevento is known for its rich history, dating back to Roman times. Visitors can explore well-preserved ancient sites such as the Arch of Trajan, the Roman Theatre, and the Church of Santa Sofia, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Scenic Beauty: The picturesque countryside surrounding Benevento offers stunning views of vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills. Nature lovers can enjoy hiking, cycling, and exploring the lush landscapes of the Campania region.
Culinary Delights: Benevento is renowned for its delicious local cuisine, featuring traditional dishes such as pasta alla norma, eggplant parmesan, and buffalo mozzarella. Visitors can also sample local wines from the nearby vineyards of Irpinia.
Festivals and Events: Benevento hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and traditional celebrations such as the annual Walnut Festival. These events provide a great opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.
Authentic Italian Experience: Benevento is a less touristy destination compared to other cities in Italy, allowing visitors to experience authentic Italian life and hospitality. Travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture, interact with friendly locals, and enjoy a more relaxed pace of life.

Overall, Benevento offers a perfect blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and culinary delights, making it a hidden gem worth exploring in Italy.

What to know

Benevento, located in the Campania region of Italy, is a charming and historical city with much to offer visitors. However, like any destination, there are some potential drawbacks to keep in mind when traveling to Benevento:

Limited transportation options: Benevento is not as well-connected by public transportation as some larger Italian cities, which can make it more challenging to get around the area. It may require more planning and potentially more time to reach certain attractions or neighboring towns.
Language barrier: While many people in Benevento may speak some English, the primary language spoken is Italian. If you do not speak Italian, you may encounter difficulties communicating with locals and navigating daily activities.
Limited nightlife: Benevento is a smaller city compared to major tourist destinations in Italy, so the nightlife options may be more limited. If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife scene with clubs and bars, you may find Benevento lacking in this regard.
Seasonal weather variations: Like much of Italy, Benevento experiences seasonal weather variations. Summers can be hot and dry, while winters can be chilly and wet. Depending on your preferences, you may need to plan your trip accordingly to avoid extreme weather conditions.
Potential for tourist crowds: While Benevento is not as heavily touristed as cities like Rome or Florence, it still attracts visitors, especially during peak travel seasons. If you prefer quieter, less crowded destinations, you may want to consider the timing of your visit to Benevento.

Overall, Benevento offers a unique and authentic Italian experience, but it's important to be aware of these potential cons when planning your trip.

Benevento is a city in the Campania region of Italy with a rich historical and cultural heritage. Its history dates back to ancient times, and it has been influenced by various civilizations, leaving a significant mark on its development and architecture.

Ancient History:

Foundation and Roman Era: Originally known as Maleventum, the city was later renamed Beneventum. It was a significant settlement of the Samnites, an Italic tribe. The city became a Roman colony in 268 BC after the Samnite Wars. Its strategic location on the Appian Way made it an important hub for trade and military movements.
Battle of Beneventum (214 BC): During the Second Punic War, a decisive battle occurred near Beneventum, where Roman forces, led by Tiberius Sempronius Gracchus, defeated the Carthaginians.
Arch of Trajan: Erected in 114 AD, this well-preserved Roman triumphal arch was built to honor Emperor Trajan. It is one of the city's most notable historical landmarks.

Medieval Period:

Lombard Duchy: In the 6th century, Benevento became a Lombard duchy, forming part of the Lombard Kingdom in Italy. It was a crucial center during the Lombard rule.
Papal Control: After the decline of the Lombard power, Benevento came under the control of the Papal States in 1053. It remained largely under papal influence until the 19th century.
Battle of Benevento (1266): A significant battle took place between the forces of Charles of Anjou and Manfred of Sicily, resulting in Charles's victory and the demise of Manfred, establishing Angevin rule over the Kingdom of Sicily.

Renaissance and Baroque Periods:

Cultural Developments: During the Renaissance, Benevento saw the construction of several churches and public buildings, reflecting the artistic movements of the time.
Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta: Originally built in the 8th century and reconstructed in the 12th century, this cathedral is an important religious and historical site in the city.

Modern History:

Unification of Italy: In the 19th century, Benevento was incorporated into the newly unified Kingdom of Italy in 1860.
World War II: The city suffered damage during World War II but was rebuilt in the following years.

Important Landmarks and Cultural Sites:

Rocca dei Rettori: A medieval fortress that has served various administrative purposes over the centuries.
Church of Santa Sofia: This 8th-century church is a UNESCO World Heritage site, part of the serial site "Longobards in Italy, Places of Power." It is known for its unique architectural style and historical significance.
Roman Theatre: Dating back to the 2nd century AD, this ancient theatre is a testament to Benevento's Roman past.
Museo del Sannio: A museum that houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Samnite, Roman, and Lombard periods, offering insights into the region's history.

Benevento's rich history, combined with its architectural and cultural heritage, makes it a significant city in the narrative of Italian and European history.