The hamlet of Amandola can be found perched on the eastern slopes of Monti Sibillini, overlooking the breathtaking Tenna valley, nestled amidst gentle, multi-hued hilly terrain.
This hamlet, rich in history and nature, derives its name from the late Latin “Amandula” (almond).
The legend attached to the name Amandola recounts that Fillide, daughter of Licurgo King of Sparta, believing her lover Demofonte dead after leaving for the Trojan war, ran away from Greece and reached Monti Sibillini in the place where the ancient Leone Castle stood. She took her own life, transforming herself into an almond.
The borgo of ancient Picena origin, was subsequently occupied by the Romans who soon founded a well-organised settlement. In the IV century, the place was invaded by the Goths and then by the Longobards, after which it was incorporated into the Spoleto dukedom in or around the VIII century, successively divided among Camerino and Fermo due to various interventions on the part of the Franks as well as the gifts of many lands to the church by King Pipino.
In 1249, thanks to the union of the feuds, Agello, Castel Leone and Marrubbione, the constitution of the Amandola commune was brought into being. This was enclosed within powerful boundary walls, interspaced with five perimeter gates: Agello, St. Giacomo (the only one still existing), Marrubbione, St. Antonio and Putei. In 1265, Amandola held its own statutes but in the coming centuries the township found itself involved in bitter struggles with Ascoli Piceno. In the XVII century, due to development of the textile industry and wool dyeing operations, it became a flourishing little city. Indeed, in 1547 it was one of the first Italian centres to adopt printing, putting onto paper its own and Montemonaco's statutes.
At the end of the XVI century, important agreements were stipulated between Amandola and the surrounding communes in an effort to define their borders.
In 1798, Amandola felt the impact of the Napoleonic might, and because it tried to resist, faced a sacking which resulted in the profanation of the sarcophagus of blessed Antonio.
It wasn't until 1800 that the French occupation ended and the Pontifical Government was restored.
Art has always played a part in the Amandolan culture. It is enough to steal a glance at the territory to be aware of this, as also its urban structure; the palaces and churches are a splendid example of a lively culture lasting through the centuries. Artists and masters of various specializations came here and left their mark, thanks to the local fertile culture. Even today, woodworking, restoration and the antique trade in furniture, are of remarkable interest.

Monuments