Attractions and places to see around Lusciano, a comune in the province of Caserta, Campania, Italy, offer a glimpse into its rich history. The town features a historic center with a medieval appearance, characterized by a checkerboard layout and ancient portals of courtyard houses. While Lusciano itself is a smaller town, the surrounding region provides a variety of historical sites and natural areas for exploration.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Forest
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Lusciano.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The semi-rock hermitage of Santa Maria Pietraspaccata is nestled within a centuries-old chestnut grove, the “Bosco della Salandra”, in the dense forest rich in flora and fauna extraordinary treasures are hidden: the “Ciaurriello“, a Roman mausoleum still preserved today, the “Grotta del Brigante“, and countless other archaeological finds yet to be discovered. The hermitage is located in Marano di Napoli and constitutes an archaeological-architectural unicum in Campania, it is partially dug into the side of a deep hydrographic furrow that from the Camaldoli hill flows into the bottom of the Quarto crater, with jumps of over one hundred meters. Its caves develop on multiple levels and probably represent a primitive rock settlement dating back to the Neolithic. It was an obligatory stop for shepherds during the transhumance, in fact, it overlooks an ancient Osco-Samnite sheep track (also cut into the tuff bank) that connected the highest Neapolitan hill with the Phlegraean-Campanian countryside. In Roman times, the caves were incorporated into an overlying villa, with probable function of mithraeum and nymphaeum. The tuff ridge involved is ingeniously sculpted in such a way as to intercept, with studied channels and inclined planes, both rainwater and spring water to be regimented in two large cisterns. Other channels accompanied the excess water to the bottom of the gully, where a suggestive stream flows that transforms into a rushing torrent during the rains. The hermitage-tower was added at the end of the 16th century in order to incorporate the aforementioned caves. The structure is crossed vertically by a fault fracture from which it is not excluded that thermal steam came out in ancient times. Discovered in 1992 by a group of volunteers organized by Prof. Carlo Palermo, who then formed the Archeoclub Maraheis, it was brought to light by them by manually removing hundreds of cubic meters of material that had fallen from the overlying cliff. The work, which lasted several years, has highlighted the strong archaeological value of the site and has recovered numerous finds from the Neolithic, from the 1st-2nd century AD and others from the medieval period. Most of these are located at the Archaeological Museum of Naples. In the early Middle Ages it was perhaps used by Basilian monks, as would be deduced from the very ancient title of SS. Salvatoriello, given to the main cave, later transformed into a tiny chapel. The place then evolved structurally from a primitive cenoby, becoming a true sanctuary to which people flock from all over the surrounding area. Over time, various hermits followed, then the Franciscan friars (the Madonna with Child and two adoring friars are frescoed in the apse, strongly reminiscent of Giotto), then the Jesuits and still other hermits, until 1800. After that date, it fell into a state of abandonment and almost total decay. In the sights of building speculation, the monumental complex suffered attacks of all kinds: the continuous landslides from the overlying ridge, the damage to the load-bearing structure with the removal of blocks and the dumping of waste of all kinds aimed above all to discourage any cultural activity in situ and above all the visits of both local believers and scholars. The praiseworthy initiative of the FAI ignites new hopes.
0
0
The Carditello palace is a Bourbon residence commissioned by Ferdinand IV of Bourbon in the 18th century for hunting, horse breeding and agricultural production. It is a neoclassical complex that can be visited and managed by the Carditello Foundation.
1
0
"Giant of Capodimonte", dating back to the second century after Christ. The statue, depicting a man with a basket, belonged to the Farnese Collection, which arrived in Naples towards the end of the eighteenth century. It was used around 1763 by Ferdinando Fuga, architect of the Capodimonte wood, to decorate the main avenue.
0
0
Le Vele di Scampia is a residential complex built in the homonymous district of Naples between 1962 and 1975. [1] They take their name from their triangular shape, reminiscent of a sail: wide at the base, the construction gradually shrinks that goes up to the upper floors. The complex was designed by the architect Francesco Di Salvo and was originally composed of 7 buildings on an area of 115 hectares; four of these buildings were demolished in 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2020; of the three remaining, two will be demolished while the last will be redeveloped. Over time, the neighborhood and the common areas of the complex became infamous places for illegal trafficking and the sails themselves became a symbol of the deterioration of the Naples neighborhood.
0
0
Post-earthquake construction causes serious social ills
0
0
Path full of jumps and dirt roads that intertwine with each other, a real fun for mtb
2
0
Wood in the heart of the metropolis. To explore in company.
2
0
Lusciano itself boasts a rich history, visible in its medieval historic center with ancient portals and the Palazzo Ducale in Piazza Vittoria, a medieval building that has evolved over centuries. The Chiesa Parrocchiale di Maria Santissima Assunta in Cielo, originally from the 14th century, also offers a glimpse into the past. Further afield, you can visit the Royal Palace of Carditello, an 18th-century Bourbon residence used for hunting and horse breeding. Another significant historical and natural site is the Hermitage of Santa Maria Pietraspaccata, a semi-rock hermitage nestled in a chestnut grove, with archaeological finds dating back to the Neolithic period.
Yes, Lusciano offers natural retreats. The Bosco della Contessa is a forest located within the city, providing paths with jumps and dirt roads, ideal for exploration. You can access this area via the Bosco Contessa Entrance, which leads to well-maintained circuits suitable for various activities. The Hermitage of Santa Maria Pietraspaccata is also set within the 'Bosco della Salandra', a dense forest rich in flora and fauna.
The area around Lusciano is great for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, mountain biking, and running. For cycling enthusiasts, there are routes like the 'Lake Lucrino – Old and New Pier of Baia loop' or the 'Historic Center of Capua – The Moats of Capua loop'. Mountain bikers can explore trails such as the 'Canalone Caserta Enduro Trail' or the 'San Leucio Bourbon Arch loop'. Runners can enjoy loops around Aversa or Parete. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for Cycling around Lusciano, MTB Trails around Lusciano, and Running Trails around Lusciano.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Royal Palace of Carditello is considered family-friendly, offering a historical experience in a grand setting. The Bosco Contessa Entrance provides access to forest circuits that are perfect for family walks and gentle exploration in nature.
The Palazzo Ducale is a significant medieval building located in Piazza Vittoria in Lusciano. It has undergone various modifications over the centuries, with records from 1732 indicating it comprised three distinct buildings: the baronial palace, the middle palace, and the Macedonia palace. Today, it also serves as a venue for local events, reflecting its continued importance to the community.
The Chiesa Parrocchiale di Maria Santissima Assunta in Cielo, or Mother Church, is a historical religious building in Lusciano, originally constructed in the 14th century. It features a Romanesque nave, which is a remnant of its initial design, and is notable for its tall bell tower topped with a pear-shaped dome. The facade is adorned with columns and a niche containing a statue of the Assumption, making it a key architectural and spiritual landmark in the town.
Beyond the historic center of Lusciano, a unique architectural landmark is Le Vele di Scampia. This residential complex in Naples, built between 1962 and 1975, is known for its distinctive triangular shape, reminiscent of a sail. While it has become a symbol of urban challenges, its unique design by architect Francesco Di Salvo makes it a notable example of post-war Italian architecture.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical and natural sites. The Royal Palace of Carditello is highly regarded for its historical significance and neoclassical architecture. The Bosco della Contessa is enjoyed as a pleasant urban woodland, with many finding its paths and dirt roads 'a real fun for MTB'. The area's attractions are well-received by the komoot community, with numerous upvotes and photos shared by visitors.
Yes, the Hermitage of Santa Maria Pietraspaccata is partially dug into the side of a deep hydrographic furrow and features caves that develop on multiple levels. These caves likely represent a primitive rock settlement from the Neolithic period. The site also includes the 'Grotta del Brigante' and is crossed vertically by a fault fracture, adding to its geological interest.
The Bosco della Contessa is a forest located within the city of Lusciano. It's known for its paths with jumps and dirt roads, making it a popular spot for mountain biking. It's described as 'a wood in the city' and 'a real fun for mtb', offering a natural escape and recreational opportunities right within the urban area.
For those interested in local knowledge and history, Lusciano has a Municipal Library located on Via Costanzo. Additionally, the town's historic center, with its medieval appearance and ancient portals, offers a tangible connection to its past. The Convento e Casa di Riposo Sacro Cuore di Gesù also contributes to the town's cultural and social fabric.
The Royal Palace of Carditello is a historical site near Lusciano, a neoclassical complex commissioned by Ferdinand IV of Bourbon in the 18th century. It served as a Bourbon residence primarily for hunting, horse breeding, and agricultural production. Today, it is managed by the Carditello Foundation and is open for visits, offering a glimpse into royal life and architecture of the period.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: