Descrizione
San Costanzo, with its charming hamlets of Stacciola and Cerasa, is a veritable treasure trove of experiences, nestled within a landscape that captivates with its beauty and uniqueness. Each village tells a centuries-old story, one of close-knit communities and unbreakable ties to the local area. Stacciola, a small gem of medieval origin, retains its charm intact through features such as the communal oven dating from 1795, a symbol of the tradition and spirit of sharing that characterised village life. This oven, which is still in use today during community events, represents a living link to the ancient customs of solidarity, when bread was prepared and baked together, bringing the village’s families together.
The parish church of St John the Evangelist, once the family chapel of the Counts of Mauruzi, is a historic and spiritual landmark, housing precious documents and works of art within its walls. Among these, the ‘Book of Souls’ stands out: a unique register offering a glimpse into the religious and social life of the community, preserving names, traditions and events that recount centuries of local history. The hamlet is also deeply linked to prominent historical figures, such as Niccolò Mauruzi da Tolentino, to whom Pandolfo Malatesta granted the fiefdom in 1412 as a token of gratitude for his military victories. This interweaving of stories and characters lends Stacciola an aura of authenticity and prestige.
Cerasa, on the other hand, reveals an equally significant past, deeply rooted in its Benedictine origins. The village, originally known as ‘Querciafissa’, was rebuilt in the 13th century using the rubble of the previous castle and transformed into a fortified settlement thanks to the efforts of Abbot Martinozzi in 1380. The castle, with its imposing walls and traces of corbels, still tells the story of its long history today. The church of San Lorenzo, built in 1346 and subsequently rebuilt, is a true architectural and spiritual gem. Inside, an 18th-century organ crafted by Gaetano Callido, a baptismal font dating from 1629 and a plaque in Gothic script commemorating the original building enrich the village’s artistic heritage.
