Atella is a very ancient centre, repopulated several times throughout history by people from surrounding areas. In the 14th century, John of Anjou wanted to refound and re-organise Atella, as well as encourage its expansion, particularly with people from Monticchio, Sant'Andrea, Agromonte and Lagopesole, making it one of the most significant economic and military centres in the region. The town was fortified with walls, with two gates providing access, and a castle, the only remaining element of which is now a single tower of the four that existed until the 1694 earthquake. Among the various monuments that make up the cultural heritage of the town are the Cathedral of S. Maria ad Nives, the Angevin tower of the castle destroyed in the 1694 earthquake, the church of S. Lucia, and the Benedictine convent and church. In the town centre, near the cemetery, an archaeological site has uncovered evidence of prehistoric life by Homo antecessor.
Atella in the Park
10.1% of its municipal territory, about 884 hectares, falls within the Park. Here we find Lago Piccolo di Monticchio, and the Lago Piccolo di Monticchio Regional Nature Reserve. Also of particular interest is the Fiumara, the medieval Triepi, an Important Bird Area (IBA) of special significance in terms of vegetation as well as fauna.
