Santa  Sofia  Complex  of  Benevento​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 9 January 2024
​The Santa Sofia Complex of Benevento is situated in the town of Benevento, capital of the Province of Benevento in the southern Italian region of Campania.

Since 2011 it's been a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the full heading of Longobards in Italy. Places of the Power (568-774 A.D.), one of seven building groups that make up the inscription.
​The Roman Catholic church was originally built in the 8th century by the Lombards, also known as the Longobards. 
Related links
Profile
The Santa Sofia Complex of Benevento, located in the Campania region of southern Italy, is an extraordinary historical site dating back to the early Middle Ages. It comprises the Church of Santa Sofia, the Arch of Trajan, and the Roman Theatre, creating a unique ensemble of ancient and medieval architecture.
History
The Santa Sofia Complex is centered around the Church of Santa Sofia, a significant example of Lombard architecture in Italy. The church was originally built in the 8th century AD by the Lombard prince Arechis II as part of a monastery complex. The Lombards were a Germanic people who ruled over parts of Italy during the early medieval period.

The church's design was influenced by the Byzantine architectural style, particularly that of Hagia Sophia in Constantinople (now Istanbul). The complex's proximity to the ancient Roman structures, such as the Arch of Trajan and the Roman Theatre, underscores the layered history of the site.
Key features
The Church of Santa Sofia is renowned for its unique architectural elements, blending Lombard, Byzantine, and Romanesque influences. Its octagonal shape, a central feature of Byzantine churches, sets it apart from typical medieval European church designs.

The church's interior boasts beautiful frescoes, depicting religious themes and historical events. The crypt houses ancient Roman sarcophagi, adding to the site's historical significance.
Visitor information
  • Historical Significance: The complex exemplifies the intermingling of Roman, Byzantine, and Lombard cultures during the early Middle Ages.
  • Architectural Marvel: The octagonal shape and intricate details of the Church of Santa Sofia make it a fascinating example of early medieval architecture.
  • Ancient Roman Remnants: The nearby Arch of Trajan and Roman Theatre provide a glimpse into ancient Roman civilization and its influence on subsequent cultures.
  • Art and Frescoes: The church's interior frescoes and ancient sarcophagi in the crypt offer an enriching experience for art and history enthusiasts.
  • Cultural Heritage: The complex is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.
  • Guided Tours: Guided tours are available, providing visitors with valuable insights into the site's history and architectural significance.
  • Accessibility: The Santa Sofia Complex is easily accessible by public transportation or car from the city of Naples and other major cities in Campania.
  • Local Cuisine: Visitors can savor the delicious Campanian cuisine at nearby restaurants, completing their cultural experience.
Complesso Monumentale di Santa Sofia - Benevento
City: Benevento

​Province: Benevento​

Region: Campania

Built: 8th Century

​​​​​Architectural style: Italian Byzantine

Fly to: Naples International Airport - 1 hour 13 minutes (63 km)

Close by: ​Benevento, Montesarchio, Sant'Agata de' Goti, Avellino

Recommended accommodation: B&B Domus Traiani Benevento
UNESCO World Heritage Site

Longobards in Italy: Places of the Power (568-774 A.D.)

​Year: 2011

Santa  Sofia  Complex​  Gallery

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via my Italy Review Blog for which you'll find links below to the Facebook and Twitter pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.