Complesso Monumentale di San Pietro a Corte (Monumental Complex of San Pietro a Corte), Salerno

The Monumental Complex of San Pietro a Corte represents a pinnacle of Medieval architecture and the exclusive example of a Palace building complex from the Longobard era in Europe. This monumental site served as the prestigious seat of the Longobard Court in Campania, a symbol of political and strategic importance.

Constructed by Duke Arechi II of Benevento in 774, following the defeat of the Northern Longobards by Charles Magnus, San Pietro a Corte became the new residence for the duke, who had been granted the title of Princeps gentis langobardorum. The architectural remains include the upper room's pilasters, which stand on the frigidarium of a spa complex dating back to the imperial age (late 1st – early 2nd century AD). This structure, initially part of a spa, was later repurposed as a Christian burial ground, where notable personalities of the time, referred to as vir spectabilis, found their resting place.

The upper level of the complex likely housed the official room, possibly accompanied by a Palatine chapel. In 1567, the commendatory abbot Decio Caracciolo introduced modifications, including the current grand staircase visible from Largo Antica Corte. In the subsequent centuries, between the 13th and 16th centuries, a chapel devoted to the Virgin Mary was added.

Presently undergoing restoration, the complex aspires to become a museum showcasing the rich Longobard civilization of Southern Italy.