Molise

Southern Italy forms the lower boot of the Italian peninsula, containing the ankle (Abruzzo and Molise and southern Lazio), the toe (Calabria), and the heel (Apulia). On the eastern coast is the Adriatic Sea, leading into the rest of the Mediterranean through the Strait of Otranto. On the Adriatic, south of the spur of the boot, the peninsula of Monte Gargano, the Gulf of Salerno, the Gulf of Naples, and the Gulf of Gaeta are each named after a large coastal city.

Molise is a small region in southern Italy, bordered by Abruzzo to the north, Apulia to the east, Lazio to the west, and Campania to the south. It has a short stretch of coastline on the Adriatic Sea, and the rest of its territory is mountainous. Molise is the second smallest region in Italy, after the Aosta Valley, but it is packed with natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural attractions. In Molise, the city of Isernia is where traces of a million-year-old village were unearthed in 1979, the most ancient signs of human life ever found in Europe. And the quiet resort and fishing port of Térmoli, from where Italian and Central European time is set, is a good place to relax.

The region consists of the following Provinces: Campobasso and Isernia

Places of interest

Larino: Medieval town centre, cathedral, amphitheatre.

Ancient Samnite city of Pietrabbondante: This well-preserved site features a theatre, temple, and other ruins dating back to the 4th century BC.

Termoli: Molise's only coastal town. Termoli has a charming historic centre and a beautiful beach

Campobasso: The capital of Molise, Campobasso is a charming city with a rich history. It is home to the Monforte Castle, a Romanesque church dedicated to San Bartolomeo, and the Museum of the Nativity Scene.

Isernia: The second largest city in Molise, Isernia is known for its well-preserved Samnite ruins, including a theatre, amphitheatre, and temples.

Agnone: This picturesque town is known for its centuries-old tradition of bell-making. Visitors can tour the Papacalda Foundry, one of the oldest bell foundries in Italy.

Campitello Matese: This mountain resort town is a popular destination for skiing and other winter sports. It is also a great base for hiking and biking in the Matese Mountains.

Santuario dell'Addolorata di Castelpetroso: This Marian shrine is one of the most important religious sites in Molise. It is known for its beautiful architecture and its miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary.

Abbazia di San Vincenzo al Volturno: This Benedictine abbey is one of the most important religious and cultural sites in Molise. It was founded in the 6th century and features a well-preserved basilica, monastery, and other buildings.

Cuisine of the region

The cuisine of Molise is rustic and hearty, reflecting the region's agricultural roots. 

Fusilli alla molisana: This pasta dish is made with fusilli pasta, a tomato sauce, and lamb or sausage.

Cavatelli con broccoli e peperone: This pasta dish is made with cavatelli pasta, broccoli, and red pepper.

Pampanella: This street food dish is made with marinated pork that is cooked in the oven and served in a bun.

Brodetto alla termolese: This fish stew is made with a variety of fish and seafood, including squid, monkfish, shrimp, clams, and mussels.

Caciocavallo di Agnone: This semi-hard cheese is made from cow's milk and is aged for at least 60 days.

Signora di Conca Casale: This sausage is made from pork loin, thigh, shoulder, and belly. It is seasoned with garlic, fennel seeds, and black pepper.