Supersano: Sacred Architecture, Nature and Local Traditions

Supersano combines medieval defensive history, traces of an early medieval settlement, sacred architecture, and Mediterranean maquis. It also features old country paths, flora and fauna, as well as local festivals and dishes.

History and Sacred Architecture

The medieval tower of Castello Manfredi was probably the first defensive structure in Supersano and may have been built under the Normans in the 12th century.

In the Località Scorpo there is an early medieval village with pit houses, a settlement form that is unique in southern Italy to date. The settlement remains at Scorpo complement the defensive history with an early medieval chapter.

The Santuario della Beata Vergine di Coelimanna dates from the early 16th century, was rebuilt, and completed in 1746. The interior has a Greek cross layout and a complex masonry vault. On the 18th-century high altar there is a papier-mâché high relief depicting a shepherdess showing the Blessed Virgin of Coelimanna to the parish priest.

The Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo was inaugurated in April 1740 after its reconstruction. An extension in 1933 gave it its present Latin cross shape. The façade of Carparo masonry blocks is divided into two orders by an entablature. In the ground plan, the Greek cross and the Latin cross thus stand opposite each other as different architectural forms.

Maquis, Paths and Nature Observation

The Bosco della Serra di Mucurone is an area of approximately 2,000 m² covered in Mediterranean maquis. Old country paths known as tratturi run through the woodland; they provide an opportunity to observe the region’s rich biodiversity. The visitor centre features dioramas of the woodland’s flora and fauna, educational panels, and a model of the water cycle.

The Parco Naturale della Serra di Coelimanna lies in Mediterranean maquis. Rare plant species found there include manna ash, terebinth, and chestnut. An equipped outdoor area has been created in the immediate vicinity of the Cripta and the Santuario della Beata Vergine di Coelimanna, offering opportunities for picnics, sports activities, and wellness trails.

Landscape and Local Traditions

Supersano is one of the municipalities belonging to the Parco dei Paduli, a 5,500-hectare rural landscape with ancient olive groves, dry-stone walls, masserie, menhirs, and other cultural and landscape features. The Parco dei Paduli connection project includes Supersano and follows an approximately 30-kilometre route through agricultural, natural, and historic local landscapes.

Local traditions also give the town its own distinctive character. On 19 March, Massa e ciciri is traditionally prepared in honour of Saint Joseph, a dish made with chickpeas and homemade pasta. Since 1980, the Supersano Carnival has featured an annual parade with masked groups and allegorical floats. Massa e ciciri belongs to the town’s culinary tradition, while the carnival is part of its festive tradition.

More destinations for your travel planning

Discover more destinations here: Posto Rosso, Minervino Di Lecce, Borgagne, Trepuzzi, Galugnano, Soleto, Ugento and Collemeto.

To the higher-level travel overview: Lecce.