Italian News Headlines 24-05-2025: The Italian navy training ship, Amerigo Vespucci, arrived in Cagliari to be welcomed by Luna Rossa, the winner of the 37th America's Cup youth and womens tournament --- Italy will host the 38th edition of the America's cup in Naples in 2027 --- Robert Francis Prevost from the USA has been chosen as the new pope, taking the name, Pope Leo XIV --- Two floating cranes, one of which is among the most powerful in Europe, have begun the process of lifting the sunken superyacht, the Bayesian, to the surface off the coast of Sicily --- Italian racing driver, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the F1 Mercedes team's replacement for Lewis Hamilton, became the youngest driver to take a Formula 1 pole position for the sprint race at the Miami Grand Prix --- King Charles III addresses the Italian Parliament in Italian, during his state visit of Italy --- A new discovery at Pompei has uncovered near life-sized frescoes that depict religious practices that were popular in the ancient city before its destruction in AD79 --- Pope Francis has spent a 10th night in hospital having been admitted with pneumonia in both lungs --- The Demoskopika Institute has rated Italy at the top of the European Tourism Reputation Index, above Greece and Spain, for the second year running --- Milan bans smoking in the street from 5th January 2025

Province of Campobasso

Campobasso Province
Castello Monforte, province of Campobasso
Gianfranco Vitolo from Sarno (Sa), Italia, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Nestled in the heart of southern Italy, the Province of Campobasso is a land of rolling hills, medieval towns, and authentic traditions. Often overlooked by mainstream tourism, Campobasso is part of the lesser-known region of Molise, which has managed to preserve the soul of rural Italy, untainted by crowds, untouched by time, and utterly enchanting.

Find a hotel in Molise

Campobasso Province
Province of Campobasso, Molise

A Gateway to Molise

Campobasso is the capital of both the province and the region. Located approximately 700 meters above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and centuries-old villages. Despite its under-the-radar status, Campobasso is a treasure trove of history, architecture, cuisine, and natural beauty.

History and Heritage

The city of Campobasso dates back to Lombard times and rose to prominence in the Middle Ages. It was originally a fortified settlement, and remnants of its medieval walls and watchtowers still stand proudly today. The iconic Castello Monforte, perched high above the city, is a 15th-century fortress that offers sweeping views and a deep dive into local history.

Wandering through the Old Town (Centro Storico), visitors find winding cobbled alleys, baroque churches, and elegant palazzi. Notable churches include the Church of San Bartolomeo and the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, both reflecting the town’s religious and artistic traditions.

Cultural Tapestry and Local Life

Campobasso’s culture is deeply rooted in craftsmanship and folklore. The city has long been famous for scissor and blade making, a tradition that goes back to the 14th century. Local artisans still forge tools by hand, a rare sight in today’s mechanized world.

Traditional festivals like the ‘Misteri di Campobasso’, a Corpus Domini procession featuring human statues on floats, give visitors a glimpse of spiritual devotion combined with theatrical flair.

Culinary Delights

Molise may be one of Italy’s smallest regions, but its flavors are rich and bold. In Campobasso, food is a celebration of homegrown ingredients and time-honored recipes. Local dishes to try include:

Cavatelli with ragù – hand-rolled pasta with a hearty pork sauce.

Pampanella – spicy, slow-cooked pork seasoned with garlic and paprika.

Scamorza and Caciocavallo – delicious local cheeses often smoked or grilled.

Turdilli – a sweet, fried delicacy drizzled with honey, typically served at Christmas.

And of course, the local wines, such as Tintilia del Molise, provide the perfect pairing to any meal.

Nature and Adventure

The Province of Campobasso is blessed with unspoiled landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, from hiking trails in the Matese Mountains to tranquil strolls in nature reserves like the Guardiaregia-Campochiaro Oasis.

In winter, skiing is possible in nearby Campitello Matese, while summer invites travelers to explore ancient paths once walked by shepherds and pilgrims.

Lakes like Lago di Guardialfiera and rivers such as the Biferno add serenity to the region’s rugged charm, offering kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities.

Charming Villages and Day Trips

Beyond the capital, the province is dotted with picturesque hill towns and villages, each with its own unique character. Highlights include:

Larino – a Roman town with an amphitheater, mosaics, and medieval old town.

Termoli – technically in the Province of Campobasso until 1970, this seaside town remains a cultural and culinary influence, with beautiful beaches and a castle.

Sepino (Altilia) – one of Italy’s best-preserved Roman archaeological sites, with ancient baths, a forum, and a theater.

Castropignano – home to another stunning medieval castle and dramatic hilltop views.

Each of these locations provides a glimpse into the deep and layered history of Molise, and many host local sagre (festivals) celebrating everything from truffles to chestnuts.

Why Visit Campobasso Now?

In an era of overtourism, Campobasso stands as a sanctuary of authentic Italian culture, where visitors can connect with locals, experience real traditions, and enjoy the landscape without the hustle of crowded destinations. It’s a place to slow down, breathe, and truly feel Italy.

With improved road and rail links from Rome, Naples, and Bari, it’s easier than ever to explore this hidden jewel. And once discovered, Campobasso tends to linger in the memory, a symbol of Italy’s timeless beauty and heartfelt welcome.

The Best Italian Handmade Gifts
Direct From Italy

Como (duck egg blue) - Popular, roomy, strong, soft leather bag

More Details

Useful Services
Flag of Molise
Flag of Molise
  • Regional Information

    • Area: 4,438 km²
      Population: 320,907
      Density: 72/km²
      Capital: Campobasso

      National Parks:
      The Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park
Location of Molise
Location of Molise
Provinces of Molise
Provinces of Molise
  • Comunes of Molise
    • Campobasso
      • Acquaviva Collecroce
        Baranello
        Bojano
        Bonefro
        Busso
        Campobasso
        Campochiaro
        Campodipietra
        Campolieto
        Campomarino
        Casacalenda
        Casalciprano
        Castelbottaccio
        Castellino del Biferno
        Castelmauro
        Castropignano
        Cercemaggiore
        Cercepiccola
        Civitacampomarano
        Colle d’Anchise
        Colletorto
        Duronia
        Ferrazzano
        Fossalto
        Gambatesa
        Gildone
        Guardialfiera
        Guardiaregia
        Guglionesi
        Jelsi
        Larino
        Limosano
        Lucito
        Lupara
        Macchia Valfortore
        Mafalda
        Matrice
        Mirabello Sannitico
        Molise
        Monacilioni
        Montagano
        Montecilfone
        Montefalcone nel Sannio
        Montelongo
        Montemitro
        Montenero di Bisaccia
        Montorio nei Frentani
        Morrone del Sannio
        Oratino
        Palata
        Petacciato
        Petrella Tifernina
        Pietracatella
        Pietracupa
        Portocannone
        Provvidenti
        Riccia
        Ripabottoni
        Ripalimosani
        Roccavivara
        Rotello
        Salcito
        San Biase
        San Felice del Molise
        San Giacomo degli Schiavoni
        San Giovanni in Galdo
        San Giuliano del Sannio
        San Giuliano di Puglia
        San Martino in Pensilis
        San Massimo
        San Polo Matese
        Santa Croce di Magliano
        Sant’Angelo Limosano
        Sant’Elia a Pianisi
        Sepino
        Spinete
        Tavenna
        Termoli
        Torella del Sannio
        Toro
        Trivento
        Tufara
        Ururi
        Vinchiaturo

    • Isernia
      • Acquaviva d’Isernia
        Agnone
        Bagnoli del Trigno
        Belmonte del Sannio
        Cantalupo nel Sannio
        Capracotta
        Carovilli
        Carpinone
        Castel del Giudice
        Castel San Vincenzo
        Castelpetroso
        Castelpizzuto
        Castelverrino
        Cerro al Volturno
        Chiauci
        Civitanova del Sannio
        Colli a Volturno
        Conca Casale
        Filignano
        Forlì del Sannio
        Fornelli
        Frosolone
        Isernia
        Longano
        Macchia d’Isernia
        Macchiagodena
        Miranda
        Montaquila
        Montenero Val Cocchiara
        Monteroduni
        Pesche
        Pescolanciano
        Pescopennataro
        Pettoranello del Molise
        Pietrabbondante
        Pizzone
        Poggio Sannita
        Pozzilli
        Rionero Sannitico
        Roccamandolfi
        Roccasicura
        Rocchetta a Volturno
        San Pietro Avellana
        Santa Maria del Molise
        Sant’Agapito
        Sant’Angelo del Pesco
        Sant’Elena Sannita
        Scapoli
        Sessano del Molise
        Sesto Campano
        Vastogirardi
Molise Airports
Airports of Molise
Hotels in Molise
Hotels in Molise
MoliseWEATHER
Molise Climate (Campobasso)
  High Low Sun Rain
Jan 6 1 - 63
Feb 7 1 - 54
Mar 9 2 - 53
Apr 13 5 - 60
May 18 9 - 46
Jun 22 13 - 42
Jul 25 15 - 29
Aug 25 15 - 36
Sep 21 13 - 45
Oct 16 9 - 70
Nov 11 5 - 80
Dec 8 2 - 74
Table Key:
High - Average monthly high temperatures
Low - Average monthly low temperatures
Sun - Average hours of sunshine per day
Rain - Average monthly rainfall in mm
Other pages you might like
Newsletter
Enter your email address below to receive our free newsletter, 'I Love Italy'. It provides a captivating glimpse into the allure of 'The Bel Paese', containing extracts from our most recent articles, a window on Italian news, fashion, music and culture, useful information for visiting and living in Italy as well as our latest, delicious Italian recipes.

Subscribers are also entitled to a 10% discount on purchases from our sister-site, Italy Gifts Direct.

We will not use your email address for any other purpose or pass it on to any other organisation and you can unsubscribe from this service at any time.