Santa Croce di Magliano
Santa Croce di Magliano: a gem in Molise
Santa Croce di Magliano is a small yet charming town located in the province of Campobasso, situated on hills surrounded by the Fortore river and Tona stream. It is the easternmost municipality in the region of Molise, covering an area of 52.53 square kilometers and with a population of 4,203 inhabitants. In this text, we will discover the geographical, historical, and cultural features that make this town a hidden gem in Molise.
Physical geography
Santa Croce di Magliano is characterized by a hilly terrain, located at an elevation of 608 meters above sea level. This provides the town with an expansive view of hills, mountains, and the Adriatic Sea visible on clearer days.
History
The history of Santa Croce di Magliano dates back to the 13th century when the town was first mentioned in documents. Later, the town became a fiefdom of the Sant'Eustachio monastery until the first half of the 16th century. Subsequently, it came under the possession of various noble families, including the Ceva Grimaldi and Caldora. In the 15th century, the town was inhabited by a minority of Albanians from Constantinople, who built the Greek church, a rare example of Byzantine architecture in Molise. In 2002, the town was damaged by the Molise earthquake, which caused damage to the church of San Giacomo Maggiore, now restored.
Symbols
The coat of arms and flag of Santa Croce di Magliano were granted by the decree of the President of the Republic on August 7, 1990. The flag is a split banner of white and red.
Monuments and places of interest
The town of Santa Croce di Magliano is rich in monuments and places of interest. Among the most important is the Mother Church of Sant'Antonio, built in 1612 and rebuilt in Baroque style after the Irpinia earthquake of 1732. The church has a simple and sober architecture, with a main altar surmounted by a false cupola and an exquisite 18th-century wooden organ. Another important monument is the Church of San Giacomo, built in 1727 and closed following the Molise earthquake in 2002. The church has been restored and reopened in 2009, featuring beautiful Baroque architecture and a tower bell.
Santa Croce di Magliano is a unique and charming town that offers a glimpse into its history, monuments, and hidden treasures. If you are looking for a destination off the beaten path, this is the place for you!
