Portocannone, called in arbëreshë “Portkanuni,” is a Molise municipality of Albanian linguistic minority. Located a few kilometers from the sea, it is characterized by the majestic Baronial Palace, built between 1735 and 1742 by Baron Carlo Diego Cinni.
The settlement’s origins date back to 1046, when it was founded under the name “Portocandesium” near the present municipal cemetery. In 1456, a violent earthquake devastated the area, leading to a gradual migration of Albanians fleeing the Ottoman invasion. The town was repopulated and rebuilt, with the construction of the church dedicated to Our Lady of Constantinople.
Among the most interesting monuments are the Baronial Palace, with its period frescoes and furnishings, and the Borgo Costantinopoli city gate, evidence of Albanian migration, decorated with Arbëreshë paintings. Also important are the Mother Church of Saints Peter and Paul, which houses a 16th-century painting of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Constantinople, and the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, dating from the 17th century.
Portocannone’s most significant tradition is the Carrese, which takes place on the Monday following Pentecost. This competition involves three teams: the “Giovani” (white and light blue), the “Giovanotti” (yellow and red) and since 2008 the “Xhuvëntjelvet” (orange). The origin of the festival is linked to the legend of Albanian settlers, who allegedly followed two oxen pulling a cart with the effigy of Our Lady to the present location of the village. The Carrese is a highly participatory event that combines religion and folklore and involves the entire Lower Molise region.
In addition to the Carrese, Portocannone hosts other celebrations: the feast of St. Anthony (Jan. 16), Carnival with the traditional burning of a papier-mâché puppet, and the Living Nativity, which involves much of the community.
The local gastronomy reflects Albanian influence with dishes such as “Bakalla i rakanuot” (codfish au gratin), “Gjimaveja” (lamb broth soup), “Kardhunt ka brodi” (broth with thistles), “Pica me cingaridhe” (pizza with cracklings) and “Petullat” (leavened dough pancakes, typical of the Christmas season).
Portocannone represents a perfect blend of history, Arbëreshë culture and centuries-old traditions, keeping the memory of its roots alive through typical festivals and gastronomy.