MISSANELLO
Missanello is an agricultural centre in
Val d’Agri, immersed in a territory cultivated with
olives.
History
There are two hypotheses regarding the etymology of the name
of the village: from Mesnellus, a name of a Medieval feudatory
or from the Greek “meisos eillon,” that is “tightened
means.”
Its foundation came about during the Medieval period, perhaps
in relation to works carried out by Basilian Monks who arrived
in these lands around the VIII and IX century in escape from
iconoclastic persecution from Eastern emperors. The S. Senatro
Church was founded nearby.
What is certain, is that in 968 Missanello was already a parochial
as cited in more ancient documents regarding it.
With the advent of the Normans, Robert Guiscard, Missanello
became a Lordship of Osmundo.
The following were also feudatories: Guglielmo Berengario,
Roberto De Autreshe, Coppola del Sangro, Pappacoda and Lentini.
Missanello participated in the revolt motions against Bourbon
governing during 1821 and 1848.
In 1857, the village was gravely damaged by heavy seismic
activity.
A visit to the City
The Medieval Castle dominates the City from a higher spot.
In the City, one can visit the San Nicola Magno Mother Church,
which preserves wooden statues and paintings from the XVI
century, and the S. Maria delle Grazie Convent, which is positioned
beside the Castle.
Not much remains of the Basilian Church of S. Senatro, but
departure is possible from Missanello, to visit the neighbouring
villages of: Gallicchio, Alianello and Aliano.
Place of interest
The Medieval Castle; San Nicola Magno Mother Church (XII
century); S. Maria delle Grazie Convent (XVII century) Remains
of the S. Senatro Church (XI century); The Grotto of the Hypogean
Church of S. Lavorio; Murgi di San Lorenzo ; Medieval Centre
of Gallicchio; Madonna della Stella Sanctuary; Visits to Alianello
and Aliano.
Events
Feast of San Donato on 7 August; Sagra della pastorale (Pastoral
Festival) on 10th August; Feast of San Rocco on 18 and 19th
August; Feast of San Nicola on 6th December.
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