Pescolanciano
Discovering Pescolanciano, a hidden gem in the mountains of Molise
Welcome to Pescolanciano, a charming town in the province of Isernia, in the heart of Molise. With its population of 801, Pescolanciano stands out for its unspoiled nature, with a territory characterized by hills, valleys, open fields, and wooded areas. Let's discover together all the wonders that this place has to offer!
Territory
Pescolanciano extends along the Lucera-Castel di Sangro Trail, a vast grassy path that has preserved its characteristics intact, except for the stretch that crosses the village. The mountain environment is made up of terraced slopes, which create a varied and articulated but soft and undulating landscape. The open fields constitute the dominant landscape, interrupted mainly at the borders by vast wooded areas and closed by gentle mountains. The settlement rises on the two valleys crossed by the Trigno river to the east and the Savone stream to the west, with the large Fagus pura forest to the west up to the majestic mountain massif of Monte Totila (1395 m above sea level).
Climate
The climate of Pescolanciano is characterized by harsh winters, with many rains and snowfalls, and mild summers with sporadic afternoon thunderstorms. The temperature inversion is very frequent, determining particularly low minimum temperatures, considering the altitude.
Origins of the name
The name of Pescolanciano comes from "Pesclum Lanzanum," which indicated the rock ("Pesclum") and its Norman feudal lord ("Lanz").
History
Pescolanciano is a place rich in history. It seems that the castle was built on a fortified Samnite site, although archive documents show a fortification only from the time of Alboino around 573 AD. The fief neighboring the nearby village of Santa Maria dei Vignali, abandoned after the earthquake of 1456, was crossed by an important communication route that connected the high localities of the central Abruzzo Apennines with the coastal ones of the "Tavoliere di Puglia."
What to do in Pescolanciano
Pescolanciano offers numerous activities to spend a holiday immersed in nature. It is possible to go for walks, bike rides or horseback rides along the trails that cross the surrounding mountains or relax and admire breathtaking landscapes. There are also gastronomic excursions to discover the Molise home cooking.
Events
Throughout the year, Pescolanciano hosts numerous events. Among the main ones, the feast of Sant'Antonio Abate, the patron saint of the village, which takes place on January 17th and is characterized by the blessing of animals and the traditional "nsamma" (dinner) of Sant'Antonio. The feast of the Madonna di Loreto, which takes place on the last Sunday of August, is also an opportunity to experience the tradition and culture of Pescolanciano.
How to reach Pescolanciano
To reach Pescolanciano, it is possible to take the A1 motorway to the Caianello exit and continue along the SS85 towards Isernia. From here, you can move on to the SS158 to Pescolanciano. Alternatively, you can take the train to the Isernia station and then take a bus to Pescolanciano.
Conclusions
Pescolanciano is undoubtedly a hidden gem in the mountains of Molise. If you are looking for a holiday immersed in nature, away from the stress of the city, Pescolanciano is definitely the right place to choose. With its unspoiled nature and its millenary history, Pescolanciano will not fail to surprise and fascinate you. Come and discover this unspoiled paradise!
