Benano: Castle History and Routes to the Altopiano dell’Alfina

Benano lies at the upper end of the valley and provides direct access to the landscape of the Altopiano dell’Alfina. The volcanic plateau is characterised by expansive fields and forests that merge into the deep, green Benano Valley. From Benano, the Altopiano dell’Alfina can be reached via a short ascent through a wooded area. If you would like to combine nature and local history, the village can therefore be explored through its landscapes, paths and historic sites.

Castle, Churches and Exhibition

Benano Castle was disputed between different branches of the Monaldeschi family. In 1390, a peace agreement between the Monaldeschi, Montemarte and Orsini families was signed there. Activity by the parish of Saints Peter and Paul in Benano is documented for the years 1756 to 1861. The Chiesa di Maria SS. della Neve formerly served as the seat of the Confraternita del Santissimo Sacramento. The Chiesa dei Santi Pietro e Paolo in Benano could be visited free of charge on 6 and 7 August 2022 as part of a programme organised by volunteers.

“Presepi nel Borgo” adds another cultural connection. From 21 December 2025 to 11 January 2026, Benano hosted the 13th edition of the event. The exhibition included nativity scenes made from various materials, donated for the occasion by associations, institutions and private individuals. The “Passeggiata dei Presepi” from Benano to Castel Viscardo was also part of the “Presepi nel Borgo” programme.

Hiking between the Village, Valley and Plateau

Benano is connected to several hiking routes. The Grande Anello dell'Orvietano passes through the village of Benano before Castelgiorgio. The documented hike “La Madonna della Neve sotto le stelle” leads from Benano towards the Altopiano dell’Alfina.

A precisely dated example is a guided hike on the Altopiano dell’Alfina on 10 August 2025. Benano was reached at around 10 a.m., after which a guided tour of the village and its churches was planned. Following the visit to Benano and its churches, the hike descended into the valley and then returned to the Altopiano dell’Alfina via the vicinity of the Fontanile di Tristi. The route thus included the village, valley and plateau in succession, without limiting Benano to a single focus of the visit.

This gives you two clear focal points for planning your trip: historic sites and the exhibition on the one hand, and documented routes and landscapes on the other. If you want to focus on the churches and castle history, your interests will lead you to the village’s historical themes. If you prefer physical activity, the routes place Benano within the connection between the valley and the plateau.

Further Destinations

You can discover more destinations for orientation here: Poggio Aquilone, Foce, Allerona, Guardea, Avigliano Umbro, Giove, Rotecastello, Canale Nuovo.

For the higher-level travel overview: Terni.