Immersed in the rural landscape of Molise, along the state road “Fondovalle del Tappino”, is the Taverna sul tratturo, a historic building that is part of the larger property called “Villa Grimalda”, in the countryside of Pietracatella. The name itself reveals its
origin: it is an ancient tavern located on the Castel di
Sangro-Lucera, important route of transhumance that in this stretch adjoins the river Tappino.
In the past the Taverna was connected to the town of
Pietracatella through the municipal road “Taverna”, which
crossed the river thanks to a stone bridge now disappeared due to a flood. The building has a composite system, the result of an architectural evolution that took place in several stages. The wall and structural analyses highlight at least three different construction moments, each associated with different use functions and architectural styles.
The left part of the structure is distinguished by the simplicity of the architectural elements: here an original body has been expanded with a later addition. The right side is more articulated and has the main entrance surmounted by a coat of arms, as well as a characteristic angular structure with shoe base.
Passing the entrance you enter a large central room that serves as a pivot point for the other rooms on the ground floor. To the left is a stable of later era, while on the other sides there are three rooms for different uses. A stone staircase, under which was located an oven, leads to the upper floor, where spaces follow a similar layout but were once intended for residence and hospitality. Access to the upper floor is also possible via an external staircase.
Today the Taverna sul tratturo is a significant example of Molise rural architecture, witness to local history and the passage of shepherds along the tracturi. Inserted in a natural and historical context of great value, continues to tell his many lives between hospitality, work and memory.