Sessano del Molise, a small village immersed in the uncontaminated nature of the upper Molise, is easily recognizable by the dome of its church. The village, inhabited by a few people, offers a quiet and timeless atmosphere, surrounded by the green and lush landscape.
The first historical traces of its existence date back to the Norman era, when the village was known as Saxana, probably due to the rocky nature of the land. Initially a fief of Isnardo Giso, it passed to the counts of Isernia and, in the fifteenth century, to the Castagna family. In the following centuries it was governed by various families, including the Costanzo, Frezza, D’Andrea and the Mostrilli di Gallo dukes. With the end of feudalism, Sessano was annexed to the government of Isernia and subsequently to the district of Carpinone.
A significant historical event occurred in 1442 in the plains at the foot of the village, where a battle was fought between the Aragonese army and the Caldora, loyal to the Angevins.
The architectural heritage of the village is limited, since many ancient structures, such as the medieval walls, have been lost. However, you can still visit the parish church of the Assunta, built in 1742, and the small church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, built in 1606 and restored in the twentieth century. The latter is located outside the town, near the “Cittadella di Padre Pio”.
The local cuisine is distinguished by simple but tasty dishes, such as stuffed artichokes and fiadone. A typical dish of the village is the “Cappuccia”, prepared with cabbage, ribs, pork rinds, pig’s feet and cheek, all cooked in a tomato sauce.
The traditions of Sessano del Molise are mainly linked to religious holidays. Among the main events, the feast of San Donato, the town’s patron saint, stands out, celebrated on August 7. On August 2, the celebrations dedicated to Sant’Antonio and Santa Maria degli Angeli take place, moments of strong participation for the local community. Sessano del Molise, with its discreet charm and authentic traditions, represents a corner of history and nature waiting to be discovered.