Casale in Norcia

The cluster lies within the Monti Sibillini section of the central Apennines. The Monti Sibillini National Park is inside the 15 km radius. The high plain (Pian Grande) and the village of Castelluccio di Norcia are within c.10–15 km and are the traditional growing area of the lenticchia di Castelluccio; the plain is noted for an annual spring flower bloom. Monte Vettore (2,476 m) is the nearest major peak and Lago di Pilato, a small glacial lake, sits on its slopes; both are inside the park and within about 15 km. Norcia (pop. ~4,457) is the local town, birthplace of Saint Benedict, with historic churches, shops and markets; much of the historic centre and the Basilica of San Benedetto sustained heavy damage in the 2016 Central Italy earthquakes. The area is known for pork products and cured meats (prosciutto and other salumi) and for truffles. The terrain around the cluster includes upland pastures, karst features and steep mountain slopes typical of the Sibillini.