The city itself is a combination of two towns, one Roman and one Sannitican, home of the Pentri tribe of the Samnites. The still visible 'pelasgiche' walls were built over 4000 years ago.

Its period of glory was thus a long time ago. In fact 91-88 BC when it became the capital of the 'Italic League' and the first capital of 'Italy'. Since then it has been destroyed 12 times with those usual suspects the Vandals then Saracens making up the list.

The last demolition job was in 1943 with the deaths of over 4000 inhabitants in bitter WW2 fighting as the allies slowly worked their way northwards. Add to this the various earthquakes that have hit the city, it is surprising anything is left.

The 'Campanile' dating from 1015 is housed in the city's museum in the former convent of Santa Maria delle Monache and is one of the great survivors.

In July the two nearby rivers, the Carpino and Cavaliere ensure a fresh climate and a cool break from the sultry southern sun.

Local poet Giose Rimanelli chose to describe his beloved territory in these words: 'Just like the sparse olive trees with their huge balls of foliage protecting the slumber of passing doves, Molise is a magic pillow on which to lay your head, sewn with lace and surprises'.

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