Carpinone
Welcome to Carpinone: the medieval village of Molise
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about Carpinone, a small Italian municipality in the province of Isernia in Molise. With its 1024 inhabitants, Carpinone is an enchanting medieval village that will leave you speechless. Over the centuries, the town has undergone various evolutions and has become famous for its monuments and tourist attractions. Come with me as we explore the history, symbols, monuments, and places of interest of Carpinone.
Origin of the name
The name Carpinone is thought to derive from the Carpino river that runs alongside the center, or from the Carpinus tree. Whatever the origin of the name, it is certain that Carpinone is a wonderful place that is just waiting to be discovered.
History
Founded in the eighth century by the Lombards, Carpinone was ruled by different families over the centuries. Among the first lords in power was Tommaso d'Evoli, Lord (noble title) of Castelpizzuto, Monteroduni, and Roccamandolfi. In the fifteenth century, the town was handed over to the Caldora family who fortified the castle. Later on, members of the Pandone family, the Ceva Grimaldi families, and the De Risio family ruled the town. In 1807, Carpinone entered the district of Isernia, under the jurisdiction of Castelpetroso, and since 1861 has been part of the province of Campobasso and since 1970 of that of Isernia.
Symbols
The coat of arms and the banner of the municipality of Carpinone were granted by presidential decree on September 2, 1988. These symbols represent the history, culture, and traditions of the village.
Monuments and places of interest
Carpinone is a hidden treasure of Molise, which shines for its monuments and tourist attractions.
The medieval walls
The historic center is protected by a double ring of walls from different periods. The first was built to defend the Caldora castle, while the second encircles an area bordering the modern 19th-century town. Between these two walls is the medieval village of Carpinone, the streets are made of stone, the houses are covered in smooth plaster, and the alleys maintain their ancient medieval appearance. These walls represent a fundamental part of Carpinone's history and architecture.
The waterfalls of Carpinone
Near the historic center, there are the waterfalls of Carpinone, which are reachable and visitable on foot. There are two waterfalls, one larger and one smaller, and they derive from the merging of the Carpino and Tura rivers. They are a unique natural attraction, and it is definitely worth seeing them.
Mother church of Santa Maria Assunta
The mother church of Santa Maria Assunta, built in the sixteenth century, is located in the heart of Carpinone and is one of its most important monuments. The church was restored in 1725 and then after the earthquake of 1805, it was rebuilt in neoclassical style. With its plant of three naves, 10 meters high, the church has a semicircular apse and a raised transept connected to the pavilion. The bell tower dates back to 1725.
Church of Santa Maria di Loreto
The church of Santa Maria di Loreto was built in 1610 by Biagio Martella, near an ancient church of 1356. It is said that the Madonna appeared to him in a dream and indicated the place on which to build the new church. The church has a single nave, and at the back, there is the main altar with the sculpture of the Virgin. On either side are two chapels, of the Holy Family and of San Leonardo: the ceiling of the vault is made of carved and gilded wood, with hints of turquoise blue.
Conclusions
Carpinone is an enchanting place that deserves to be visited for its magnificent architecture, its history, and its tourist attractions. If you want to experience a unique experience in the heart of Molise, you must absolutely visit Carpinone.
