Identity of the territory

Each macro-area is further subdivided into smaller territories known as “ID Clusters” (Identity Clusters): areas distinguished by a specific Longobard history and by tangible features—monumental, artistic, museum-related, archival, religious, and traditional—linked to the presence of that people, alongside other elements that currently attract tourists. From a tourism perspective, the Route’s organizational system aims to showcase both major and minor centers, highlighting their natural assets as well as their distinctive agri-food, culinary, and artisanal traditions. Ultimately, the Route allows visitors to broaden their knowledge of the many micro-territories—including those off the beaten path yet no less evocative—that make up each macro-area, thereby making the “ID Clusters” and their respective communities co-protagonists in a grand historical narrative.

Points of Interest (POI) – There are approximately 2,000 Points of Interest (POI) identified and recognized for their Longobard origins: authentic building blocks in the complex structure of the Itinerary. In addition to the serial site of excellence designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site [The Longobards in Italy. Places of the Power (568–774)], the Longobard heritage comprises churches, monasteries, abbeys, castles, fortified sites, and necropolises, as well as artifacts of Longobard material culture and Early Medieval documentary evidence preserved in museums and historical archives across the various territories.

Further elements characterizing each “ID Cluster” include:

• Museums and Historical Archives: key points of interest that safeguard artifacts representing the material and documentary culture of the era.
• Natural heritage: although altered over time, these landscapes form the setting where local Longobard history unfolded. This applies to mountains, rivers, lakes, geosites, UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, Natura 2000 sites, protected parks, and nature reserves—all of which offer complementary opportunities to explore the area.
• Local traditions: to showcase the territory’s productive strengths—particularly those of interest to tourists—attention is drawn to the agri-food, livestock, culinary/wine, and artisanal craft sectors.
• Local micro-routes: a network of minor paths connecting points of interest (POIs) across the territory. These routes wind through landscapes that highlight the strategic value of fortified sites and defensive structures—whether dating back to the Longobard period or built in later eras upon pre-existing Longobard foundations.