Macchia Valfortore is located on a gentle hill that slopes towards Lake Occhito. A medieval village with an authentic charm, it preserves stone houses and narrow streets, offering an atmosphere of peace and relaxation. Thanks to its proximity to the lake, it offers numerous outdoor activities immersed in uncontaminated nature.
The origins of the municipality probably date back to the 12th century. The name “Macchia” derives from the presence of thick woods, while “Valfortore” was added in the 19th century to distinguish it from other municipalities of the same name. The first historical mention dates back to 1443, under the rule of Antonio Colla. In the 16th century, the fiefdom passed to the de Regina family and subsequently, in 1618, to the Gambacorta family. Gaetano Gambacorta was involved in the “Congiura di Macchia”, a failed attempt to overthrow the government of the Kingdom of Naples. After the confiscation of the fiefdom, it was purchased by the Grimaldis, who kept it until the abolition of feudalism.
Among the main historic buildings, the Palazzo de Regina-Gambacorta and the church of San Nicola di Mira stand out. The latter, dating back to at least 1509, has three naves and houses several statues by the sculptor Colombo, a painting on wood from 1520 and a wooden altar with busts of the twelve Apostles. Other noteworthy places of worship are the church of Santa Maria del Bagno (17th century), the church of Santa Maria degli Angioli and that of Santa Maria di Costantinopoli. Downstream from the town there are two chapels: Santa Maria degli Angeli (“a curt) and Santa Maria dell’Assunta (“a long”).
Lake Occhito, the largest artificial basin in Italy, is an unmissable attraction for fishing enthusiasts, with species such as tench, chub, trout and saplings. The caves of Macchia Valfortore, dug into the tuff rock and still in use, are also worth a visit.
There are numerous local festivities. Among the main ones, San Bonifacio (co-patron) on May 14th, Sant’Antonio on June 13th, Madonna delle Grazie in July, Madonna Assunta on August 15th, with a procession to the “a long” chapel, Madonna Incoronata on September 11th and it ends on December 6th with the patron saint San Nicola. The culinary tradition boasts the “cicatielle al ragù”, a fresh pasta longer than cavatelli, seasoned with veal sauce.