History

The Pignatelli Princes of Monteroduni

The Pignatelli family is one of the most prominent noble families in Italy’s heraldry. The Pignatellis, of Longobard origin, as testified by the three pots that adorn the family coat of arms, were among the protagonists of Italian history from 1100 to the end of 1800.

The most prominent sign of the family’s presence in the area is the Pignatelli Castle at Monteroduni: strategically built to control the Volturno river valley in a well-defended position, it stands out against the background of the Mainarde and Matese ridges, with Abruzzi outlines visible in the distance.

For centuries, the Castle was the center of Monteroduni economic activities until, during the Renaissance, it became the residency of the Pignatelli family.