Cannavina Palace, an elegant 18th-century building, stands in the historic center of Campobasso. The current structure dates back to 1782 when Michelangelo Salottolo purchased and extensively remodeled the palace, stripping it of many original features from its 16th-century construction. The palace’s origins trace back to 1500-1530, the era of Isabella di Capua’s marriage to Ferrante I Gonzaga, whose noble coat of arms remains preserved inside.
Throughout history, the palace changed hands among several noble families, including the Gonzagas, the Vitalianos, and the Carafas. In 1727, Salvatore Romano, a local baron, acquired it before selling it in 1783 to the Salottolo family. Eventually, it passed to the Cannavina family, who gave it its present name.
The building has a quadrangular layout, two upper floors, and an imposing Baroque portal adorned with a noble coat of arms depicting a pine tree and two lions atop three hills, crowned by a marquis coronet. Each noble floor once housed a private chapel, underscoring the family’s prestige.
Until the early 21st century, Cannavina Palace was richly furnished and housed historical artifacts from its aristocratic owners. Among its treasures were a Louis XVI-style room, noble portraits, war relics—including a telescope owned by Admiral Nelson—an antique pianola used for grand balls, and a photographic collection by Trombetta. The palace also contained letters from notable historical figures like Senator Francesco D’Ovidio and Antonio Ranieri. One of its most symbolic items was a tricolor flag with “Independence” inscribed on it, waved by Ferdinando Cannavina during the 1848 uprisings in Naples.
Today, Cannavina Palace remains a fascinating fragment of Molise’s aristocratic past, a symbol of culture, power, and prestige.
It has now been converted into a Luxury B&B with six beautiful rooms.