It was founded around the 4th centruy BC and the Romans soon declared it a 'municipio' due to the ease of which the town could be defended.

It became a Longobard stronghold in 571 AD after which it was bought and sold by numnerous rich and powerful men over the next 1000 years.

The last of its feudal owners were the Grimaldi and Sauli from Genoa with the Doria d'Angri eventually giving up control in 1739.

Montella was a fierce supporter of the 'Risorgimento' and the Unificiation of Italy in the 19th century. It's reward in the aftermath, however, was to become devasted by brigands who found the nearby mountains and forests ideal bases.

Go there in the first half of November for the Typical Products Market of the Alta Valle della Calore, as well as the Chestnut Fair.

Read more about the chestnut industry of Montella and Bagnoli Irpino here.

Nature lovers should head to the wooded areas of Costa del Caprio, Costa del Cervo, Felascosa, Sassetano and Valle Cinquanta.