Isernia between archaeology, crafts and mountain landscapes

Paleolithic heritage and archaeological collections

Isernia La Pineta is an archaeological site from the Paleolithic period dating back approximately 700,000 years. The excavations reveal several settlement phases and have yielded numerous worked stone tools. The finds include the fossil of a child dated to 583,000 years ago, presumably belonging to the species Homo heidelbergensis.

The Santa Maria delle Monache complex houses an exhibition of finds from Isernia La Pineta as well as an archaeological museum. The early medieval complex was built around the year 1000; the adjoining Church of the Assumption, with its imposing bell tower, dates from the 7th century. The Museo Nazionale del Paleolitico, a museum, is also located in the immediate vicinity of Isernia. Also located there are Arte 90 Di Maglione Elena, a museum, the Saint Francesco Palace, a palace, and the Museo di Santa Maria delle Monache, a museum.

Buildings, fountains and crafts

The Cathedral of San Pietro Apostolo in Isernia stands on the remains of an ancient Italic sanctuary dating from the 3rd century BC. The old bell tower is known as the Arco di San Pietro; Corso passes through its large pointed-arch opening. The Fontana Fraterna is a public fountain and is considered a landmark of Isernia. It has six gargoyles and an unusual, loggia-like shape.

The Museo civico della Storia e della Memoria displays lace-making tools, yarns, drawings and finished works, including household linens, lingerie and jewelry. The museum is divided into three sections.

Fiera delle Cipolle and local traditions

Isernia's characteristic Fiera delle Cipolle is associated with the feast of Saints Peter and Paul and traditionally centers on onions and garlic. It has been held annually in Isernia since at least the 15th century.

Valley between mountains and natural attractions

Isernia lies in a valley between the Monti delle Mainarde to the northwest and the Matese Mountains to the southeast. In the immediate vicinity of Isernia are Colle Conocchiola, a mountain, and La Romana, a mountain. The area around Isernia also includes Colle Pietrereie, a mountain, and Monte Cilara, a mountain. Isernia and the Province of Isernia are considered destinations for visitors with a particular interest in trekking and nature.

Ferrovia dei Parchi

Along the route of the Ferrovia dei Parchi, there are stops for guided tours as well as excursions on foot or by bicycle.

Arrival and mobility

Isernia railway station provides assistance for people with disabilities and reduced mobility.

Other places in this travel area

Agnone, Macchia d'Isernia, Roccasicura, Sesto Campano, San Pietro Avellana, Pagliaia di Cerro, Santa Maria del Molise, Capracotta, Rionero Sannitico, Forlì Del Sannio, Castelpetroso, Colli A Volturno, Pescopennataro, Conca Casale, Castel San Vincenzo, Frosolone, Incoronata, Venafro, Pesche, Carovilli, Bagnoli Del Trigno, Macchiagodena, Chiauci, Pietrabbondante, Sant'Agapito, Pescolanciano, Pizzone, Civitanova del Sannio, Sant'Anna, Roccamandolfi, Miranda, Rocchetta Alta, Vastogirardi, Roccaravindola, Castel del Giudice, Filignano and Isernia.

To the overview of the wider travel area: Molise.