Rionero Sannitico, called “Rrunìr” by the local elders, is a small village of 1,069 inhabitants in the province of Isernia, situated over 1,000 meters above sea level. Its location offers a striking view of the Meta Mountains and is crossed by one of the main roads connecting Molise to Abruzzo.
The town’s name may derive from the “Rio” tributary of the Volturno River. Its history is linked to the Abbey of San Vincenzo al Volturno, from which it was usurped in 1064. In 1381 it was granted to Andrea Carafa, count of Forli, and later passed to the Di Sangro family, then back to the Carafas, who ruled it until 1781, when it became part of the state property. The original name “Rivinigri” was changed to “Rionero,” and in 1864 “Sannitico” was added.
Over time, the village has seen several churches built. The oldest is that of St. Bartholomew the Apostle, with a Latin cross plan and three naves, dating back to the plague period of 1600. Then there are the Church of the Trinity, with an altar made of precious marbles, the Church of St. Lawrence, built in honor of the saint celebrated on August 10, the Church of St. Marian, a pilgrimage destination of the Patron Saints, and the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary.
Prominent among the historical relics is the Ducal Palace, an ancient fortress that preserves an underground cistern for collecting rainwater, connected by a system of channels. The building still has a helicoidal stone staircase connecting the various levels.
The most significant event in the village is the patronal festival in honor of St. Marian and St. James. The celebration includes a procession from Rionero Sannitico to the Church of San Mariano, where pilgrims quench their thirst at the fountain located under the chapel, which is considered miraculous.