Abruzzo and Molise Overview

The foothills of the Apennine mountains are home to medieval fortresses, Roman rubble, and sprawling wilderness. The people of this region have been shepherds since the Bronze Age, and only in the last half-century has their way of life begun to transform. Millennia-old shepherds’ paths weave through the countryside, and the villages sustain a sleepy lifestyle largely similar to that of their ancestors. About two hours from the Eternal City and still predominantly untouched by tourism, these highlands offer natural beauty and a unique retreat from bustling urban life. A single region until they split in 1963, Abruzzo (ah-BROOTS-oh) and Molise (mo-LEEZ-eh) lie at the juncture of Northern and Southern Italy. Abruzzo offers crystal lakes, lush pines, and unique wildlife, especially in its national park. The smaller Molise, inhabited long ago by Samnite highlanders, is home to wondrous ruins, medieval festivals, and especially flavorful food. These regions may not fit in with the stereotypical image of Italy, but if you seek an unexpected twist on la dolce vita, look no farther.