Discover Benano: Castle, Churches and Trails on the Altopiano dell’Alfina

Benano lies at the upper end of the valley. The deep, green Benano Valley merges into the volcanic Altopiano dell’Alfina, whose expansive fields and forests extend into the valley landscape. From Benano, a short climb through a wooded area leads up to the plateau. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Benano, these contrasts can shape your plans: a day of your holiday can be spent on valley trails, through woodland stretches or amid the open landscapes of the plateau.

Holiday Apartment in Benano for Culture and Trails

At Benano Castle, rule was disputed between different branches of the Monaldeschi family. In 1390, a peace agreement between the Monaldeschi, Montemarte and Orsini families was signed there. The castle thus brings together two clearly defined historical themes: the conflict within the Monaldeschi family and a later peace settlement between several families.

The churches are also specific cultural points of interest in the village. The parish of Saints Peter and Paul can be traced back to activity from 1756 to 1861. The Chiesa dei Santi Pietro e Paolo could be visited free of charge on 6 and 7 August 2022 as part of a programme organised by volunteers. The Chiesa di Maria SS. della Neve was formerly the seat of the Confraternita del Santissimo Sacramento.

Exhibition and Winter Tradition

One distinctive cultural aspect is the “Presepi nel Borgo” exhibition. It features nativity scenes made from various materials, donated for the event by associations, institutions and private individuals. From 21 December 2025 to 11 January 2026, Benano hosted the 13th edition of “Presepi nel borgo”. For accommodation planning focused on local traditions, this combination of village, churches and nativity scenes represents a distinct cultural focus.

Hikes between the Village and the Plateau

Benano is also included in several documented hiking routes. The Grande Anello dell’Orvietano passes through the village before Castelgiorgio. The hike “La Madonna della Neve sotto le stelle” leads from Benano towards the Altopiano dell’Alfina. The “Passeggiata dei Presepi” from Benano to Castel Viscardo was also part of the “Presepi nel Borgo” programme. The different routes make it easier to decide whether you would rather include a cultural event, a trail through the landscape or a connection to another place in your plans.

During a guided hike on the Altopiano dell’Alfina on 10 August 2025, Benano was reached at around 10 a.m.; a guided tour of the village and its churches was then scheduled. After visiting 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. If you choose a holiday home or holiday apartment in Benano, you can therefore organise your days around the documented highlights: the castle and churches, the exhibition or trails leading from the valley back up to the plateau.

More Destinations for Your Plans

Orvieto, Acquasparta, Cantone, Montecampano, Casteldelmonte, Macerino, Baschi and Castel Dell'aquila

To the higher-level travel overview: Terni.