Irpinia

Irpinia is centred on the section of the Apennines which spans from the northern Sella di Ariano [it] to the springs of the Sele River; the highest peak is Mount Avella (1,591 m).

The Hirpini occupied the region Sabato, Calore, Cervaro [it] and Ofanto, becoming differentiated with time from the Samnites who settled the area from Molise and Matese.

The main centres of the Hirpini were Maloenton (modern Benevento), Aeclanum (Mirabella Eclano), Aequum Tuticum (Ariano Irpino), Vescellium [it] (near Roseto Valfortore), Trivicum (Trevico), Compsa (Conza), Aquilonia (Lacedonia), and Abellinum (Atripalda).

After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Irpinia came successively under Byzantine, Lombard, Hohenstaufen, Anjou, Aragonese and finally Spanish domination.

Irpinia's salami (Sopressata) and sausages are popular, as are its chestnuts, its hazelnuts and the black truffles of Bagnoli Irpino.

The most popular Irpinia's town is Ariano Irpino, which lies on the top of three steep hills and is provided with ancient sights (a medieval castle and a romanic cathedral), some museums, majolica shops and traditional restaurants.