Roccasicura, located between the Volturno Valley and upper Molise, is a village surrounded by unspoiled nature, part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the Collemeluccio-Montedimezzo Reserve. Its hillside location offers striking views and numerous opportunities for hiking.
The origins of the town date back to Italic times, as evidenced by the Samnite bronze statuette of Hercules from the 4th century BC. The first inhabited settlement arose in the Lombard era under the name “Roccha Siconis,” which over the centuries changed to “Rocca Sicura,” perhaps because of its protected location or having escaped the plague of 1670.
The initial agglomeration developed along the Maltempo stream, near the ancient church of San Leonardo. In time, the settlement moved toward the rocky ridge, at the foot of the castle, to the area now known as “the land.”
The castle, mentioned in a 1580 Statute, was a medium to large fortification that protected the inner dwellings. The main entrance gate, today the arch of San Rocco, also served as a prison. After the earthquakes of 1456 and 1805, the castle was destroyed, leaving only partially recovered ruins, now used as a belvedere. A tower converted into a clock, a cistern for collecting water and part of the roundabout remain visible.
The church of St. Leonard of Limoges, once part of the castle, was consecrated in 1563 and formerly used as a granary. Inside is a 17th-century wooden altar and a valuable 14th-century crucifix. Another notable church is that of St. Nicholas, documented before 1700. Three kilometers from the village stands the shrine of Our Lady of Vallisbona, dating from the 13th century.
The most heartfelt festivities are those in honor of St. Anthony, June 13, and Our Lady of Vallisbona. Events include the festival of pizzelle and bowl wine, the potato festival and “Strolling through the Village of Roccasicura,” a food and wine trail with exhibitions and music.
Local gastronomy offers meat and wild boar sausage specialties, as well as typical dishes such as polenta, ferratelle and Molise fiadone, helping to preserve the culinary traditions of the area.