Exactly halfway between the Fortore and Biferno rivers lies Montorio dei Frentani, set on high ground overlooking the valleys, a guardian of history, culture and traditions.
The origins of the town are ancient, evidenced by prehistoric finds. During the Second Punic War the territory was the scene of clashes between Hannibal and Fabius Maximus. With the fall of Rome, the inhabitants took refuge in this area to escape the barbarian invasions, giving rise to the present settlement, built around a castle and a church.
The 17th century marked a difficult period because of the plague of 1656 and the earthquake of 1688. Only in the 18th century did the town rise again thanks to the feudal lord Sinforosa Ceva-Grimaldi.
The origin of the name is uncertain: it could derive from “Mons Aureus,” for the golden color of the land, or from “Mons Taurus,” referring to the altitude. From these derived “Montorius” to which “nei Frentani” was added in 1864.
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, rebuilt in 1731 after its collapse caused by the earthquake, stands at the highest point of the village. The Church of Santa Maria del Carmine, built in the 19th century, stood outside the walls, near the gate of St. Sebastian.
The historic center is characterized by alleys leading to Palazzo Magliano, an example of a medieval aristocratic dwelling. The town is divided between the Rocca, the oldest part surrounded by walls with towers, and the Borgo Murato, also fortified with three gateways, including the main one, Porta S. Pietro or Magliano. At the four cardinal points are historic fountains: Fonte Vacchia, Fonte Trocche, Fonte San Michele, San Mauro and San Marco.
Popular traditions are still very much felt. On January 17, St. Anthony Abbot is celebrated with the traditional “St. Anthony’s fires,” which also mark the beginning of carnival. On March 19, the “Tavolata di S. Giuseppe” is held. The patron saints S. Costanzo and S. Antonio are celebrated on June 12 and 13, while on July 16 the Madonna del Carmine is celebrated with three processions and the “Manuocchi” ritual.
In August, the Sagra delle Tolle and the cultural event “Noi… Artisti di Questa Terra” are held. Local gastronomy ranges from extra-virgin olive oil to typical dishes such as Frascatielle, Taccozze, Scarpelle and Bucatini con la mollica, the protagonists of the feast of St. Joseph.