Rapone

The municipality of Rapone lies in Basilicata, on the border with Alta Irpinia, at an altitude of 838 metres, and has around 840 inhabitants. The historic centre retains its medieval appearance and is dotted with noble palazzi and doorways decorated with stone masks. For some 14 years it has been enriched by a number of themed trails created as part of the project "Rapone Paese delle Fiabe" (Rapone, Village of Fairy Tales), an ethno-anthropological project that has revived the town's old folk tales, typical of southern Italy. The symbol of the main square, which is also overlooked by the Town Hall, is the obelisk erected in 1690 and topped by a double image: a crucifix on one side and the Madonna on the other.

The mother church of San Nicola Vescovo (the end point of Stage 8 of the Cammino) is spacious and full of light. The Church of Santa Maria dei Santi, built in 1131, is the oldest in the town and houses a statue of the Madonna that is carried in procession on the first Sunday in May. By appointment, visitors can see the multimedia museum "C.E.R.A. una volta…" (Rural and Environmental Education Centre), 5 km from the historic centre. On the route of the next stage of the Cammino, a few kilometres from Rapone, don't miss the 'Giardino delle sculture rupestri' (Garden of Rock Sculptures), named in 2024 by the association Irpinia 7x. It is the work of a local craftsman on his family's land; ask for Angelo Repole.

For one of the finest panoramic views of the surrounding area, head to the 'Miezz Col' viewpoint.