Poggio Sannita, a small town in upper Molise, is distinguished by its distinctive bell tower and natural surroundings. Until 1922 it was called Caccavone, a name derived from “caccavo,” an ancient copper vessel used for processing milk. During Fascism the name was changed to “Vinoli,” in reference to local products, and then finally became Poggio Sannita the following year.
The origins date back to the early Middle Ages, the time of the Saracen invasions between 860 and 900 AD. The area was home to small monasteries and rural churches including, according to tradition, a Benedictine monastery on the hill of San Cataldo. A significant historical event occurred on April 17, 1862, when some citizens clashed against a group of brigands near Salcito, losing their lives along with the mayor. In their memory, the main square bears the name “Piazza XVII Aprile.”
The Ducal Palace, built in the 15th century and known as the “Royal Palace” because of the legend of a Bourbon sojourn, houses a photo exhibition. The historic center is full of alleys and small squares. The Calvario hamlet, once the center of craft activities, leads to the Belvedere “Calvario Hill,” the highest point of the town.
The church of Santa Vittoria, the main place of worship, stands in the heart of the village. Originating in the Middle Ages, it was rebuilt after the 1725 earthquake. It houses an urn with a bone of St. Prospero, patron saint of the village, and a historic organ from 1769. Other churches include the church of San Rocco and the chapel of Santa Lucia, where vehicles are blessed every first Sunday in June.
Since 2021, the village has been home to the “babaci,” characters made of recycled material that depict scenes from daily life, the idea of two local ladies. Outside the town is the Church of Our Lady of Grace, once a pilgrimage destination on March 25 due to a popular belief related to children’s health.
Popular religious holidays include celebrations of Our Lady of Grace (March 25 and July 2), San Rocco (Aug. 16), San Cataldo (Aug. 17), San Prospero (Aug. 21) and Santa Vittoria (Dec. 23).
Typical products include olive oil, wine, honey and truffles. Local gastronomy offers traditional dishes such as “sagne a pezzate,” “cavati,” “cic lievt,” “pallotte cacio e ova,” and “magliatiell,” as well as fine sausages.