Molise between tratturi, archaeology and landscapes

In Molise, traces of ancient routes meet Roman architecture and vast landscapes. This is especially evident in Sepino: the town was an ancient Samnite centre on transhumance routes and later took on monumental Roman forms. Elsewhere, too, historical traces of Samnite and Roman settlement have been preserved in many villages. Lakes, mountains and nature reserves also help shape the character of the mountain landscapes.

Archaeology and museums in Molise

The Museum of the City and Territory of Sepino is housed in 18th-century rural buildings. They were built on the curved structures of a Roman theatre. The material on display in the museum spans from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. A visit thus combines the collection’s broad historical range with the building’s distinctive history.

Since 1995, the Museo archeologico nazionale di Campobasso has been housed in the 18th-century Palazzo Mazzarotta, in the city’s historic centre. The permanent exhibition is organised chronologically and thematically; it includes material from the Bronze Age and Early Iron Age. The first floor is dedicated to the Samnites, their sanctuaries, trade and tombs. The notable collections include an important group of votive statuettes of Hercules.

At MAACK in Casacalenda, you can discover a different way to experience art and landscape. The open-air museum combines the village surroundings and woodland with contemporary art. It features 21 works by Italian and international artists, as well as permanent or temporary installations. As installations may change, it is advisable to check the current catalogue before your visit. You can explore MAACK via the red, blue or green circular routes, or join a local guided tour. Check the latest local visitor information for details.

Tratturi, nature and activities

Tratturi are ancient grassy paths associated with the seasonal transhumance of sheep flocks. They extend across most of Molise and form distinctive routes through the region. If you are interested in this cultural landscape, check the conditions of the relevant paths before setting out. Seasonal access restrictions may also apply to some nature destinations.

The park authority’s Molise Tour combines a short walk with views of Lake Castel San Vincenzo and visits to the Zampogna Museum and the Abbey of Castel San Vincenzo. Check the tour dates and itinerary before your trip. This will help you factor this combination of landscape, museum and abbey into your plans.

Along the Molise coast, there are equipped beaches where you can enjoy water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, diving and stand-up paddleboarding. Check seasonal conditions and the availability of individual activities before your trip. In Molise, different experiences sit side by side: archaeological collections, routes through the landscape and activities on the water.

Local experiences and getting there

Food-related activities are also part of what’s on offer: guided truffle-hunting walks are organised in Molise, as are cheese tastings in a maturing cellar. These activities are offered year-round; confirm their availability locally.

Molise can be reached by train or car. Its roads are considered particularly scenic for travellers on two wheels. Molise does not have its own airport; road connections to the region are available from the nearby airports in Rome, Naples or Pescara. Check suitable connections and timetables before your trip.

Truffle hunting and cheese tastings also offer distinctive experiences. You can take the experiences that matter to you into account when planning your stay in Molise.

Discover more destinations: Campobasso, Isernia, Umbria, Marche, Liguria, Lazio, Lake Maggiore, Piedmont.

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