Villa Traiano
The city of witches
Benevento is known around the world as the city of witches. A reputation rooted in centuries of history, myth and tradition, and one that lives on today in the famous Strega liqueur, produced here since 1860.
But where does this legend come from? And what is true?
The origins: the Lombards and the sacred walnut tree
The story of the Benevento witches begins with the Lombards, who conquered the city in the 6th century. These Germanic warriors practised pagan rites around a great walnut tree along the banks of the river Sabato. They danced, sacrificed animals and invoked Wotan, their chief god.
To the local Christians, these nocturnal rituals were the work of the devil. The women who took part were branded janare (from Dianara, followers of Diana), witches who gathered under the walnut tree to celebrate the sabbath.
The walnut tree of Benevento
The Walnut of Benevento became the very symbol of Italian witchcraft. It was said that witches flew there from all over Italy, anointing themselves with a magic ointment and reciting the formula:
“Unguento unguento, mandame alla noce de Benevento, supra acqua et supra vento et supra ad omne maltempo”
Saint Barbatus, bishop of Benevento in the 7th century, is said to have had the walnut tree cut down and converted the Lombards to Christianity. But the legend survived for centuries.
The Strega liqueur
In 1860, Giuseppe Alberti created the Strega liqueur in Benevento, inspired precisely by the legend. The secret recipe combines around 70 herbs and spices and has remained unchanged for over 160 years.
Its bright yellow colour recalls the flames of the nocturnal rites, and the bottle has become an icon of Italian craftsmanship worldwide. You can visit the Strega distillery in Benevento by appointment — our concierge can arrange the tour.
The places of the witches in Benevento
Guests staying at Villa Traiano can visit the places linked to the legend:
- Ponte Leproso over the river Sabato: said to be the site of the sacred walnut tree
- Church of Santa Sofia (UNESCO): built to supplant the pagan cults
- Arch of Trajan: its reliefs have been interpreted as magical symbols
- Samnium Museum: documents and records on local witchcraft
- Strega distillery: visit and tasting by appointment
Benevento today: between history and modernity
Today Benevento has turned its heritage into a cultural brand. The janare have become mascots of the city, appearing in the names of restaurants, on shop signs and even in the football team (nicknamed “le streghe”, the witches).
A weekend in Benevento is a journey through Roman history, the Lombard Middle Ages and fascinating legends — all accompanied by excellent wines and genuine cuisine.
Discover Benevento by staying at Villa Traiano, in the heart of the historic centre. Book now.
