Castello di Pratola Serra

Strong and evident testimony of an ancient manor, the Tracts of the Castle of Pratola Serra blend with the houses located in the upper part of the town, keeping intact the unmistakable charm that characterizes the medieval villages

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History

The Tracts of the Pratola Serra Castle bear witness to what remains of the ancient medieval manor, located in the Serra di Pratola locality. Built not only as a defense center but also as a residence for Roman-barbarian groups, the Castle of Serra was donated to the clergy, like many other towns in the Duchy of Benevento, before the year one thousand. One of the first documents, in the name of Emperor Conrad of Germany, confirms the subjection of the Castle of Serra to the Monastery of Santa read more

The Tracts of the Pratola Serra Castle bear witness to what remains of the ancient medieval manor, located in the Serra di Pratola locality. Built not only as a defense center but also as a residence for Roman-barbarian groups, the Castle of Serra was donated to the clergy, like many other towns in the Duchy of Benevento, before the year one thousand. One of the first documents, in the name of Emperor Conrad of Germany, confirms the subjection of the Castle of Serra to the Monastery of Santa Sofia in Benevento. In the 11th century, with the invasion of the Normans, the Gastaldato of Avellino was divided into two parts and the Castle of Serra became part of the County of Mont Aperto. After being set on fire in 1442, on the orders of Alfonso of Aragon, the feud of Serra ended up in the hands first of the Podericos and, subsequently, of the Toccos of Montemiletto, who held the Castle of Serra and the fiefs of Pratola until 1806, the year of subversion of feudalism. Over the years, some houses have been superimposed on the ancient fortress, which have altered its characteristics and functionality. Today, in fact, the local community also defines the buildings located in the upper part of the town with the term "castle", of which the current oratory and annexed houses are an integral part. The fort seems to preserve its original polygonal shape, with a wall and two access doors, corresponding to the two towers: one of them is located near the Porta della Terra, half-hidden and wedged inside special buildings; the other rises on the rocks close to the Canonica house and overlooks Piazza del Tiglio. Relevant historical trace for the local community, the Tracts of the Castle of Pratola Serra retain the unmistakable charm that characterizes the medieval villages. read less