San Pietro Avellana, the village immersed in the forest

San Pietro Avellana, on the border between Abruzzo and Molise at 960 meters above sea level, is immersed in beech and oak forests, between the Rio and Vandra streams. Its origins date back to the 10th century, and the name may derive from the ancient Samnite city of Volana. The village preserves medieval ruins, including the monastery with the Chronicon Volturnense, and the Samnite Cyclopean Walls on Monte Miglio. The territory is rich in springs and waterways that favor the growth of prized truffles; it hosts the Black Truffle Fair in August and the White Truffle Exhibition in November. Among the attractions are the Pesco Bertino Springs, the Fontana Grande, the Museum of Civilizations and Traditions, and the “Leopoldo Del Re” astronomical observatory. Sporting events and the processions of San Amico complete the cultural and natural offerings of the village.

What to see in San Pietro Avellana 

You don’t need to be a large city to preserve stories, traditions, art, and culture, and San Pietro Avellana is proof of this. In the heart of a territory of great beauty and unspoiled nature, this small village in the province of Isernia holds fascinating treasures of art and architecture. Worth visiting are: the Parish Church of Saints Peter and Paul, the Hermitage of Sant’Amico immersed in the forest of the same name, the Samnite Cyclopean Walls, the Leopoldo Del Re astronomical observatory, and the planetarium with 20,000 celestial bodies. San Pietro Avellana is also the homeland of excellent gastronomy, with the precious white truffle, and preserves ancient artisanal traditions, such as the weaving of splendid colorful blankets. Not to be missed are the Truffle Museum and the Museum of Alto Molise.

Discover the places around San Pietro 

In the surroundings of San Pietro Avellana, one can discover numerous sites of natural, historical, and cultural interest. Monte Miglio offers splendid hikes among beech and oak forests and the Samnite Cyclopean Walls, perfect for those who love history and trekking. Not to be missed are the springs of Pesco Bertino, Capo di Vandra, and Fonte Calante, ideal for walks among crystal-clear waters and unspoiled nature. Astronomy enthusiasts can visit the Leopoldo Del Re observatory and the planetarium with over 20,000 celestial bodies. For art and culture, the Parish Church of Saints Peter and Paul, the Hermitage of Sant’Amico, and the local museums—including the Truffle Museum and the Museum of Alto Molise—are worth attention. Finally, the surrounding territory offers opportunities for outdoor sports such as hiking, climbing, and canoeing on the Sangro River, as well as food and wine events linked to truffles.

Cover photo credits: Italia.it