Sepino, a charming village in Molise, stands on a hill at 702 meters above sea level at the foot of the Matese massif. Surrounded by lush nature, it preserves a rich historical heritage. The present town is built on the ruins of an ancient medieval castle, with narrow alleys and picturesque views.
Inhabited by the Samnites since the 4th century B.C., Sepino was an important commercial hub, located along the Pescasseroli-Candela and Matese sheep-tracks. Destroyed by the Roman consul Curson in 293 B.C. during the Samnite War and subsequently struck by an earthquake in 346 A.D., it was abandoned. It was later repopulated by a Bulgarian colony, but in the 9th century Saracen looting forced the inhabitants to move to the present site. Over the centuries it underwent various dominations, from the Normans to the Pignatellis, passing through the Monastery of Santa Sofia of Benevento.
The village boasts numerous historic buildings. These include the 13th-century church of Santa Cristina with its Baroque altar and wooden bust of the saint in the crypt. The church of Santa Maria Assunta houses an impressive nativity scene, while the church of San Lorenzo features a Romanesque bell tower. The town center is dominated by the square dedicated to Nerazio Prisco, a Sepinese official of Emperor Trajan. The Mascherone fountain stands out at the entrance to the village, while just outside the center is the Convent of the Holy Trinity.
The surrounding nature offers such wonders as Campitello di Sepino, with its beech forest ideal for hiking and picnicking. From the last bend in the scenic road there are spectacular views as far as Mount Vesuvius. Nearby are picturesque waterfalls, including those of San Felice, della Castagna and under the San Rocco bridge.
Not to be missed are the archaeological sites: Saepinum, an ancient Roman city with its forum, baths and well-preserved city walls; San Pietro dei Cantoni and Terravecchia, witnesses to past eras.
Sepinese traditions are still alive, such as the performance of the buffalo players on New Year’s Eve and the celebrations for Santa Cristina with the “Night of the Bells.” The local gastronomy boasts genuine dishes, including “mpanatella,” prepared with mixed legumes and mushrooms gathered from the surrounding forests.
Sepino is a perfect blend of history, nature and traditions, making it a fascinating destination for anyone who wants to discover the authentic heart of Molise.