Campodipietra stands on a ridge overlooking the Tappino River valley in a strategic position due to its proximity to the “Lucera-Castel di Sangro” sheep trail. For centuries, in fact, transhumance fostered commercial and cultural exchanges.
The earliest evidence of settlements dates back to the Samnite age, as shown by finds from the 7th-4th centuries B.C. housed in the Archaeological Museum of Campobasso. Later Roman times left traces of necropolis and rustic villas. The historic center, elliptical in shape, suggests Longobard origins instead. The name “Campus de Petra” first appears in 1022 in the Chronicon Vulturnense, referring to the passage of Emperor Henry II.
In the Middle Ages the town was ruled by various noble families, including the Marchisio, De Verulis, Acquaviva, Boccapianola and Monforte. In the 17th century it became a fief of the Carafa family, with Duchess Claudia Carafa remembered for her exemplary administration. In the 18th century there was a dispute between the Di Sangro and Carafa families over possession of the fief.
During the Bourbon reign, Campodipietra expanded urbanistically and the mother church was rebuilt. The 19th century was marked by the 1805 earthquake and the end of transhumance. Despite the abolition of feudalism, the town was the scene of legal struggles against former feudal lords. In the 20th century Campodipietra suffered the consequences of the world wars and emigration, but since the 1980s it experienced a new economic and urban expansion thanks in part to its proximity to Campobasso.
In Piazza della Rimembranza is the Monument to the Fallen and an epigraph from the Augustan age, evidence of the presence of the Accia family. Also in the square, a tombstone with bas-relief of two spouses may have given rise to the name of the village. On the wall of the pastoral center is a Romanesque lunette with a crucified lamb, probably from the vanished chapel of Santa Maria di Loreto. The church of San Martino Vescovo, rebuilt in Baroque style between 1768 and 1770, contains works by Paolo Saverio Di Zinno, Paolo Gamba, Ciriaco Brunetti, and Francesco Montagano.
Major holidays include the feast of St. Michael the Archangel (Aug. 12) and St. Martin’s Day (Nov. 11). Cultural events include “Riviviamo il Tratturo” and “Jazz in Campo.” Local gastronomy reflects the agro-pastoral tradition, with typical dishes such as cavatelli, pallotte casce e ova, baccalà arracanato and traditional sweets. The village boasts a historic production of wine and olive oil.