Provvidenti
Discovering Provvidenti, a small historic town in Molise
If you feel like visiting a charming town in Italy, I recommend making a stop in Provvidenti, a municipality located in the province of Campobasso, in Molise. Inhabited by only 105 people, it has an ancient history and natural beauty that will enchant you.
History of Provvidenti
According to a legend, the town originated from Gerione, an ancient Italic city destroyed by Hannibal Barca during the wars against Scipio Africanus in the 3rd century BC. In the Middle Ages, Provvidenti saw the arrival of the Di Capua di Gambatesa and the Sangro di Casacalenda, and suffered from the effects of war and fascism. Recently, it was hit by the earthquake of 2002. However, thanks to its population that seeks to keep local traditions alive, the town has continued to live on.
Monuments and points of interest
Church of Santa Maria Assunta
The main parish of the town is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Documented from the 13th century, the building was consecrated again by Monsignor Tria in 1734. It has a single nave with four altars. The bell tower dates back to the 14th century and the gabled facade is decorated with medieval inscriptions in Latin.
Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Free
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Free was built in the 18th century to commemorate a miraculous event of the statue of the Madonna. Near the sanctuary, there is also the Field of the Madonna, which houses a large fresco of the Madonna with child. The colonnade of the sanctuary makes the building even more elegant and romantic.
Society
Demographic evolution
Provvidenti is the smallest municipality in the province of Campobasso and in Molise. In the 1950s and 1960s, many people emigrated in search of work, but some families chose to stay and keep the local tradition alive. The festivities in honor of the Madonna della Libera are held every year in August and are the perfect opportunity to meet the residents of the town and learn about their culinary and traditional habits.
Conclusion
Provvidenti is a small town, but it has a lot to offer to those who want to discover its beauty. Its history, monuments, and culture will leave you speechless. If you want to spend a peaceful day surrounded by nature and history, now you know where to go.
