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Ascoli Satriano
Ascoli Satriano is situated on three hills that separate the valley
of Olfanto from Premurgia. From a height of 400 metres above sea level
it enjoys a panorama stretching from the mountains of Lucania and
Irpinia, reaching down towards the Tavoliere and the Gulf of Manfredonia.
Ascoli Satriano in a photo of the 1930s
taken from the air
The
numerous archeological finds in the region witness the great historical
past of the town. Ascoli Satriano was initially a Roman colony, and
successively ally of Hannibal's army during the Punic Wars. The Saracens,
who managed to establish an Emirate in Bari, arrived even here, and
after plundering the place destroyed it completely.
Ascoli later formed part of the Byzantine territories in Puglia. With
the coming of the Normans, all previous systems were swept away and
the city was turned into a county.
Today, the beautiful historical centre of the city is embellished
by courtly palaces and squares, where the houses are adorned with
superb balconies and cross-vaults.
The castle, which dates back to the XIIIth century, was transformed
into a Ducal Palace in the XIXth century.
A visit to the Cathedral is a must; it is a Romanesque-Gothic building
and was built in the XIIth century. The Roman Bridge on the Carapelle
and the ruins of the acqueduct are heritage of Roman times.
Ascoli Satriano in an old photo
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