Cercepiccola, a small and sunny village nestled in the Molise countryside, offers an enchanting view of the Matese mountain range and guards a rich historical and cultural heritage.
A 1910 manuscript by Archpriest Don Michele Petta speculates that in Samnite-Roman times an ancient town spread over the surrounding hills, a hypothesis supported by the discovery of archaeological finds. The origin of the name is uncertain: it is thought that in Roman times it was called Celsa, conquered in the 3rd century BC by General Fabio Rulliano. However, from the 13th century references to Cercepiccola are found, with variants such as Cerula Piccola (Angevin era) and Zerche Pizola (1444). In 1571 the Carafa family, the last feudal lords of the village, built the present Ducal Palace.
Popular tradition tells of treasures hidden at the foot of S. Angelo, in the Pietraroia caves and in the buried church of S. Angelo Sofia, where a king’s daughter is said to have been buried.
Among the places to visit is the Church of the Most Holy Savior, of ancient origin and characterized by two naves. Inside is a pink stone stoup, a painting by Matteo Prato, and a statue by Paolo Saverio di Zinno. In the main square is a three-spout fountain, while just outside the village stands an ultracentennial pear tree, included in the list of “Patriarchs of Nature” and considered the oldest in Italy.
The “La Cappella” sports center, with bocce courts, tennis courts and a skating rink, has been operating near the village since 1995, and is the site of international sporting events.
Despite the dwindling population below 1,000 due to emigration, the link to the roots remains strong. In summer, cercepiccolesi return for traditional festivities dedicated to St. Donato and the Sacred Heart of Jesus, accompanied by the tasting of typical dishes such as “scarola imbottita” and “pizza and soup.”
Among the most curious traditions is the game of “pezzotta,” in which two teams roll a wheel of cheese to the finish line. Also striking is the allegorical parade of months during Carnival: thirty-two figures, many on horseback and richly adorned, enliven the village with singing, dancing and acting.
Cercepiccola is a place where history, culture and traditions intertwine, offering visitors a plunge into the past and Molisian authenticity.