Free walking tours in Benevento and what to see

Must-sees

Benevento is the capital of the Sannio, in inland Campania, and keeps traces of its Roman and Lombard past. Its best-known monument is the Arch of Trajan, from the early 2nd century and covered in reliefs, which was part of the walls for centuries. Behind the cathedral, rebuilt after the Second World War bombing, is the Roman theatre, still used for performances.

The 8th-century church of Santa Sofia is part of the World Heritage Site devoted to the Lombards in Italy and has a highly original plan, with remains of frescoes. Next to it, the Museo del Sannio occupies the former monastery, with a Romanesque cloister. At the top of Corso Garibaldi is the Rocca dei Rettori, and in the Hortus Conclusus you will see sculptures by Mimmo Paladino. Don't leave without trying Strega liqueur.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free tours in Benevento. What is on offer are paid guided walks of the historic centre, taking in the Arch of Trajan, Santa Sofia and the Roman theatre. The city has a long tradition of witch legends, and there is a night tour devoted to these mysteries and folk tales, a different way to explore the streets of the old town.

How long to spend

A well-used day is enough for the essentials: the Arch of Trajan, the cathedral and the Roman theatre in the morning, and Santa Sofia, the Museo del Sannio and the Rocca dei Rettori in the afternoon. If you stay two days, you can visit Pietrelcina, about 20 kilometres away, where Padre Pio was born, or explore other Sannio villages and their vineyards.

Where to stay

The best place to stay is the historic centre or nearby, close to Corso Garibaldi, where you can do everything on foot. There are city hotels and plenty of B&Bs in old buildings. The station area, across the river Calore, is practical if you arrive by train, although it is a little further from the old town. If you travel by car, the Sannio countryside has agriturismi surrounded by vineyards.