12 - CASTORIANA VALLEY Distance: km 21,5 Total climb: m 597 Difficulty: medium Time advised: half a day Prevalent types of interest on route: cultural

Preci, the starting point of this cycle route, is the main centre of the Castoriana valley, crossed by the Campiano river. Its historic centre, originating from a 13th century village near a Benedictine oratory, retains a 16th century appearance with a nucleus of closely-packed houses. Ascending towards the Forca d’Ancarano pass, the path reaches the hamlets of Campi and Ancarano where there are important Roman remains and numerous architectural and artistic “gems” from various eras. Some examples are the 16th century church of the Madonna Bianca in Sant’Angelo, the evocative ruins of the 14th century castle of Castelfranco in Capo del Colle, the 14th century Castle and church of St Andrew in Campi Alto and the church of the Holy Saviour featuring two symmetrical structures built at different times (14th and 15th centuries). Heading back towards Preci, the path arrives at the village of Acquaro in the environs of the Benedictine Abbey of St Eutizio which dates back to the 5th century and, over the centuries, has been the political and religious centre of a vast area.