Perched atop a hill overlooking the junction of the Calore Irpino and Sabato rivers, Benevento is a bustling Italian city on the site of ancient Beneventum. It was once an important trade hub along the Via Appia, with its Roman-built theatre and monumental arch still visible today.
Things to do in Benevento
Dominating the city centre is the Benevento Cathedral, which was originally established in the 8th century but was largely rebuilt following World War II bombings. Admire its Romanesque facade and impressive bell tower before stepping inside to see the cathedral’s original bronze doors. A short walk away is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Church of Saint Sophia, an 8th-century building whose cloisters house the Roman artefacts of the Sannio Museum.
Don’t miss the Roman Theatre, which was constructed in the 2nd century by Emperor Hadrian. Designed to house around 10,000 spectators, it features 25 arcades around its exterior and an entranceway decorated by masks. Also erected in the 2nd century was the marble-built Trajan’s Arch along the ancient trade route of the Via Traiano.
Located at the highest point of Benevento’s historic centre is the Rocca dei Rettori, a centuries-old castle that houses the Museum of the Samnium. It features a 28-metre-high tower built by the Lombards to watch over the routes entering the city, as well as a palace decorated with wooden ceilings and floral motifs. Slabs from the Via Traiana and medieval sculptures can be found in the surrounding garden.
Getting around Benevento
Benevento is around an hour’s drive from Naples and Naples International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Benevento railway station and buses travel throughout the city. The centre of Benevento can easily be explored on foot.