Molise exists
A popular saying goes: ‘Molise does not exist’. This is because it is undoubtedly one of the least known regions in Italy. But Molise exists, and how it exists!
In a natural setting of absolute value, a holiday in Molise offers the opportunity, among other things, to embark on a magical journey among ancient vestiges and nature reserves, as well as to devote oneself to tasting Molise’s delicious food and wine specialities.
In Casalciprano, a visit to the Sanctuary of the Santissima Annunziata in Castagneto and the very important Museum of Peasant Memory is not to be missed. Awaiting the visitor in Castropignano are countless beauties such as the Castello d’Evoli and the Church of the Madonna delle Grazie. Not to be missed is a visit to the nearby Roccaspromonte, also of a purely medieval character.
Fossalto, a delightful mediaeval village, besides being the birthplace of Giuseppe Folchi and Eugenio Cirese, offers, among other things, a visit to the Church of San Antonio di Padova, an exemplary Baroque testimony, and the 15th-century tower. Pietracupa, dominated by a spectacular Murgia, as well as offering a marvellous view of Molise, proposes two iconic examples to visit, namely the parish Church of Sant’Antonio Abate and the rupestrian Church.
Another fascinating village is Trivento, which offers the Steps of San Nicola, the Palazzo Comitale and the Cathedral of Saints Nazario, Celso and Vittore. A village of ancient origins, Torella del Sannio is not to be missed with its Castle dating back to the 11th century and the Church of San Nicola. In Duronia, the past, which saw it as a stronghold of the Samnites, is intertwined with the Middle Ages. Moreover, for nature lovers, this village has a special surprise in store: a visit to the so-called Giant of Duronia.
A marvellous natural window, Molise offers many beauties such as the Carafa Castle, the Church of the Annunziata and the Church of San Rocco and the Fallen of Molise.
Before it was known as the village of perfume, and the Perfume Museum is worth a visit, Sant’Elena Sannita was the land of knife grinders. So, in Sant’Elena Sannita, in addition to being able to admire its medieval layout, rich in churches dating back to the 18th century in which various artistic expressions imbued with deep faith are preserved, there is the Museo del Profumo, where the story of the transition from knife-grinders to perfumers is told.
If Sant’Elena Sannita is known and appreciated for being the village of knife grinders and perfume makers, nearby Frosolone is renowned for its excellent blades. A visit to the Museum of Cutting Blades is recommended. Not to be missed is a visit to its various churches, remarkable testimonies of faith and art.
After visiting the two enchanting Molise villages of Sant’Elena Sannita and Frosolone and witnessing ancient crafts, one can head towards the discovery of unspoilt nature. In fact, following this route, one can arrive at Colle dell’Orso where, among other things, there is the most important cliff in Molise, with over four hundred climbing routes. But, before arriving at this idyllic place, it is suggested to make a stop at the Hermitage of Sant’Egidio, a very ancient construction, as well as a place of great peace and poignant beauty.
After resting and admiring the uncontaminated nature, you can head towards Civitanova del Sannio, another enchanting Molise village surrounded by greenery. Don’t miss a visit to the Morricone del Pesco rock, where there is a fundamental testimony of rock art dating back to prehistoric times.
For those who love slow tourism, the Cammino di Sant’Elena is not to be missed. It has just three stages and winds through the villages of Alto Molise (the most mountainous and greenest part) and starts from Sant’Elena Sannita and arrives at the beautiful Agnone, famous throughout the world for being the village where the bells of all churches, including the Vatican, are made.
In conclusion, a holiday in Molise is an unmissable opportunity to experience nature and get to know an area rich in fantastic historical, artistic and folklore memories.
