Overlooking the Volturno Valley, Montaquila and its hamlet Roccaravindola guard a rich historical heritage. The name of the town may derive from Montis Aquili or Mons Aquilus. The area was inhabited since Samnite times, with traces of a Roman settlement dating between the 2nd and 5th centuries AD.
In the Middle Ages Montaquila was linked to the Abbey of San Vincenzo al Volturno, as attested by a notarial act of 962. After the Saracen destruction of the abbey, a new settlement developed in the 9th century, later becoming the present town.
The heart of the town is the Parish Church of the Assumption, built on the remains of an ancient early Christian church. Documented as early as 1100, it was damaged by fire in the 15th century and rebuilt in 1888, while the bell tower dates from 1732. Also important is the Church of San Rocco.
In high Roccaravindola is the Church of St. Michael Archangel (9th century), which has 14th-century frescoes depicting the Crucifixion, episodes from the life of Jesus and the appearance of the Angels to the shepherds, with the oldest depiction of a bagpiper. Opposite the church stands the Ducal Palace, while higher up are the ruins of the medieval castle.
There are other churches in the area, including that of San Barbato near the railroad yard. Further downstream flows the Volturno River, once crossed by a scafa. The river, still a destination for fishermen, has hosted world fishing championships and is home to a particular species of trout, the Volturno zebra trout.
Important archaeological finds include villa-farms, including that of Santa Maria degli Angeli, the largest in the area.
The local gastronomic tradition is celebrated in the Sagra della Frittata, held in May. This dish, prepared in many variations especially during the Easter season, reached a record in 2019 with a frittata of 1681 eggs.
Montaquila and Roccaravindola represent a perfect blend of history, art and traditions, offering visitors a fascinating journey into the heart of Molise.