Benevento, the capital of its namesake province in Campania, boasts a thousand-year history rooted in the ancient Roman Maleventum and the period when it was the capital of a vast Lombard duchy. Known in the modern era as the City of Witches due to ancient legends and pagan rites, Benevento is a crossroads of cultures and historical testimonies. Its monumental heritage is of the highest level, with the Arch of Trajan and the Church of Santa Sofia (UNESCO World Heritage Site) dominating the scene.

What to See: History, Art, and Architecture

• Arch of Trajan (Arco di Traiano) – Perfectly preserved, erected in 114 AD, it is one of the best-preserved Roman triumphal arches in the world, rich in reliefs narrating the deeds of Emperor Trajan.
• Monumental Complex of Santa Sofia – The element of greatest prestige, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It includes the unique star-shaped church and the evocative Lombard Cloister (Chiostro Longobardo).
• Benevento Duomo (Cathedral) – The Metropolitan Cathedral, with its Romanesque facade and the remains of the original structure damaged by bombing in World War II.
• Roman Theatre (Teatro Romano) – Large structure dating back to the time of Hadrian, still used today for performances and concerts.
• Ponte Leproso (Leper's Bridge) – Ancient Roman bridge over the Sabato river, an important access route to the city.

Gastronomy and Typical Products

• Benevento Torrone (Nougat) – An excellent confectionery product, known throughout Italy, prepared in various versions (soft and hard).
• Strega Liqueur (Liquore Strega) – An icon of the city, a digestive and aromatic liqueur based on saffron and herbs, linked to the legend of the witches.
• Caciocavallo Silano D.O.P. and Ricotta – High-quality cheeses produced in the surrounding area.
• Aglianico del Taburno D.O.C.G. Wines – The local wine excellence, a structured and long-lived red produced on the hills of Sannio.
• Cicatielli with Ciufta – Typical fresh pasta seasoned with meat ragù and small meatballs (ciufta).

Events, Excursions, and Surroundings

• Witchcraft and Historical Reenactments (Stregonerie e Rievocazioni Storiche) – Events that recall the legend of the witches, particularly around Halloween.
• Benevento Città Spettacolo Festival – An important theatrical and musical event held in the summer.
• Trekking in the Taburno - Camposauro Regional Park (Parco Regionale del Taburno - Camposauro) – Nature excursions in the mountains dominating the province, ideal for admiring panoramas and biodiversity.
• Pietrelcina – Birthplace of Padre Pio, a pilgrimage destination a short distance away.
• Sannio and Sentiero Italia – Possibility to explore the Sannio region, rich in villages and vineyards, also through the Sentiero Italia (Italy Path).

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Benevento
• Official Tourist Portal of Benevento

Top 5 Recommended Accommodations

• Grand Hotel Italiano – Historic hotel in the center, a benchmark for hospitality in Benevento.
• Hotel De La Ville – Modern and functional structure, appreciated for its convenient location.
• B&B Domus Traiani – Privileged position near the Arch of Trajan, ideal for exploring the historic center.
• Aquapetra Resort & Spa (Telese Terme, nearby) – Luxury option for those seeking relaxation and wellness in a natural setting.
• Hotel Traiano – Welcoming hotel with good value for money.

Top 5 Recommended Restaurants

• Ristorante Al Carrozzone – Traditional Campanian and Sannita cuisine, with quality meat dishes.
• La Locanda delle Streghe (The Witches' Inn) – Evocative name and typical local cuisine, with attention to Sannio products.
• Trattoria Maluventu – Offers an authentic culinary experience, rediscovering ancient recipes.
• Ristorante Kresios (Telese Terme, Michelin starred) – Although outside the city, it is an excellence for gourmet cuisine.
• Osteria Sapori di Campania – Specialized in regional dishes and a selection of local Aglianico wines.