A’ Chiena in Campagna: Water, History, and Community
Every summer in the historic town of Campagna (Salerno), the silence of its medieval alleys is transformed into a vibrant festival. Known locally as A’ Chiena “the flood”, this unique event isn’t merely a playful celebration, it’s a living connection to centuries of communal resilience and renewal.
Origins: From Hygiene to Heritage
The tradition of diverting the Tenza River into the town’s main street traces back to at least the 17th century, likely emerging during the 1656 plague to cleanse and sanitize the streets through flowing water.
While initial mentions of “A’ Chiena” appear in documents from 1889, when the canal and paving on Corso Umberto I were restored for better water flow during cleansing , the ritual’s roots in public health extend deeper and stemming from urgent needs in response to pestilence.
“A’ Chiena” waned in the 1970s, but was reborn in 1982–85 after the 1980 Irpinia earthquake, when local artists and community members reimagined the canal diversion as a festival of water and art .
A Celebration of Water and Togetherness
Held every weekend from mid‑July to mid‑August, A’ Chiena features:
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Passeggiata: A morning barefoot stroll through the gently flowing waters along Corso Umberto.
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Secchiata: Afternoon bucket battles in the street, the heart of the fun.
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Chiena di Mezzanotte: The grand finale held around August 16–17, turning the town into a magical, illuminated stage
This ritual blends folklore, artistic installations, music, and spontaneous performances, an experience crafted by the local Pro Loco since 1994 .
More Than Just Play
A’ Chiena is an act of collective memory and a celebration of identity, water heritage, and social cohesion. Laughter echoes off medieval walls, and flowing water becomes a symbol of purification, joy, and shared history.
Sustainability and Culture
Despite its festive flooding, water usage is managed responsibly. A temporary canal redirects existing flow and no water of Tenza River is wasted and environment remain unharmed.
🔗 For the full program and official updates, visit the official website 👉 here
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