The name Cicerale means “the land of chickpeas”. It is one of the biggest towns of Cilento.
The town is on the side of a hill that dominates the higher part of Alento River. Lands are very fertile thanks to the good climate and the abundance of water.
Cicerale is surrounded by the Mediterranean bush. The territory is variegated: plains, hills and a mountain.
The hamlet Monte Cicerale is really charming. On the left side of the main street there is a narrow street that goes towards the most ancient part of the village. Here there are some noble palaces, inhabited in the past. Going to the street on the right of the main street the visitor arrives to the modern part of the town.
Monuments and natural beauties...
Corbella ruins, the most ancient inhabited part of Cicerale
The ancient part of the town
Palazzo Caracciolo, used as a market
San Giorgio Church
Ruins of San Leo shrine
San Nicola Church of XII century
San Benedetto and Lucolo hamlets ruins
Ceraso, Bocca di fava and Corbella oasis
History...
Cicerale
The name Cicerale derives from the Latin term "Cicer," meaning chickpeas, a tribute to one of the region’s most traditional products. Located in the heart of the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, Cicerale is renowned for its high-quality chickpeas, recognized as a Slow Food presidium. These legumes, cultivated since ancient times, are known for their firm texture and rich flavor, used in many traditional Cilentan recipes. Cicerale is also one of the largest municipalities in the region, covering over 41 km², with nearly half of its land designated as communal property.
The village is perched on a hillside overlooking the upper course of the Alento River. A legend tells that the ancient settlement of Cicerale was once located in Bocca di Fava and called Corbella. Today, visitors can still explore the evocative ruins of this lost village, preserving its mysterious past. The area is known for its fertile land, benefiting from a mild climate and abundant water sources. The surrounding landscape features lush Mediterranean scrub, alternating with flat valley areas and rugged mountain slopes. Scenic hiking trails make it an excellent destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Particularly charming is the hamlet of Monte Cicerale, which retains its authentic allure. The historic center, accessible via a picturesque alley, is characterized by noble palaces, some now abandoned. The lower part of the village, built more recently, has maintained its traditional architectural style, blending seamlessly into the landscape.
Cicerale is not just about history and nature but also culture and tradition. Every year in August, the village hosts the Chickpea Festival (Sagra dei Ceci), an event dedicated to celebrating the town’s symbolic product. Visitors can enjoy traditional Cilentan dishes featuring chickpeas and take part in folkloric events. Religious celebrations, such as the Feast of Saint Nicholas and Saint George, the town’s patron saints, offer another opportunity to experience local traditions. These festivals include processions, performances, and gatherings that bring the community together.
With its rich historical and natural heritage, its authentic cuisine, and its centuries-old traditions, Cicerale is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the true essence of Cilento.
What to See in Cicerale
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Oases of Ceraso, Bocca di Fava, and Corbella, nature reserves ideal for hiking and trekking, offering breathtaking views of the Alento River. They provide a habitat rich in biodiversity and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
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Ruins of Corbella, the first medieval settlement of the municipality.
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Historic center, with narrow alleys and charming noble palaces.
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Palazzo Caracciolo, once the village's marketplace, still preserving valuable architectural elements.
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Church of Saint George, a building of great historical and artistic value.
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Ruins of the Basilian Shrine of Saint Leo, a testament to the ancient religious presence in the area.
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Church of Saint Nicholas, dating back to the 12th century, an example of medieval sacred architecture in the region.
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Ruins of the vanished villages of Saint Benedict and Lucolo, remnants of settlements that tell the story of a bygone era.
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Scenic viewpoints along the Alento River, perfect for relaxation in an unspoiled natural setting.
History of Cicerale
The first written records of Cicerale date back to 1463, but its history stretches back to even earlier times. During the Lombard period, the village belonged to the Gastaldate of Lucania, while under Norman rule, it was part of the County of Capaccio, under the jurisdiction of Monteforte.
Later, Cicerale became part of the vast holdings of the powerful Sanseverino family. Subsequently, the two settlements of Cicerale and Monte Cicerale were granted to the Gentilcore family, who contributed to the founding of an Augustinian monastery. In the following period, the village came under the administration of the Carafa Primicicle family, who governed it until the abolition of feudalism in 1806.
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