Vastogirardi
Let's discover the Municipality of Vastogirardi in Molise
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about Vastogirardi, an Italian municipality located in the province of Isernia in Molise. With its 632 inhabitants, it is located at 1200 meters above sea level in the part of Molise bordering Abruzzo.
Physical Geography
The territory of Vastogirardi extends over an area of 60.72 km² and borders the municipalities of Capracotta to the north, San Pietro Avellana, Castel di Sangro (AQ) and Rionero Sannitico to the west, Forlì del Sannio, Roccasicura and Carovilli to the south, and Agnone to the east. Its geographical location makes it very interesting, with relief features such as Monte Capraro, La Montagnola, Monte Miglio, and Monte Pizzi. The Trigno river, one of the two most important rivers in Molise, rises at an altitude of 1100 m and flows into the Adriatic Sea. The village appears well-preserved in its original defensive function, with cylindrical towers incorporated into buildings and supporting structures between the buildings.
Origins of the Name
The name Vastogirardi has a curious origin. It is presumed to derive from the name of a Crusader captain, Giusto Girardi. In the past, it has also been called Castel Girardo, Rocca Girardo, Guasti Belardi, Guardia Giraldo, and Guardia Gerardo. The current name, instead, is attributed to the favorable geographical position of the village, from whose summit it is possible to enjoy a wide panorama.
History
1st millennium AD
Vastogirardi dates back to the years 1100-1200, when the castle was founded by the Visconti Larosa, a fortified courtyard with a square in the center and houses around it. In its middle part, the mother church dedicated to San Nicola di Bari, the patron saint of the locality, dominates.
Foundation of the Samnites
Vastogirardi hosted an important Italic temple dating back to the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC, probably dedicated to Hercules, of which only the foundations remain today in the area adjacent to the Trigno Springs. Its foundations and perimeter walls were used in the Middle Ages for the construction of a small church, of which the perimeter of the apse is still visible, called Sant'Angelo Indiano, which still gives its name to the locality.
Conclusions
In conclusion, we can say that Vastogirardi is a very interesting Italian municipality from a historical and geographical point of view. If you are planning a trip to Molise, you could add it to your list of destinations to visit. You won't regret it!
