Agnone Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the historic hill town in Molise
Table of Contents
Agnone
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Latest page update: 20 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Agnone is situated within the Province of Isernia and has a population of 4,897 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 850 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 96 km². There is one hotel in the town centre while nearby places of interest include Pietrabbondante, Vastogirardi and Capracotta. |
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Discover
Discover Agnone
Agnone is a historic town located in the province of Isernia, in the heart of Molise, surrounded by the Apennine Mountains. Situated on a hill overlooking the lush valleys and rolling hills of the region, Agnone offers stunning views of its natural surroundings. The town is known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly its long-standing tradition of bell-making, which has been passed down through generations. The historic centre is characterised by narrow streets, ancient stone buildings, and charming squares that reflect the town’s deep roots in Italian history.
Agnone’s natural setting provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking and nature walks through the surrounding forests and hills. The area is perfect for exploring the tranquillity of the Molise countryside, with scenic routes that offer breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Agnone is also home to a number of local festivals and cultural events that celebrate its craftsmanship and heritage, drawing visitors who wish to experience the town’s vibrant traditions.
Nearby, the town of Isernia offers additional historical and cultural attractions, including archaeological sites and museums that delve into the region’s ancient past. To the south, the vast expanses of the Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park provide further opportunities for hiking and outdoor exploration, while the nearby town of Campobasso offers a lively town centre with shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. Agnone, with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, is a perfect base for those wishing to discover the heart of Molise.
Agnone’s natural setting provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking and nature walks through the surrounding forests and hills. The area is perfect for exploring the tranquillity of the Molise countryside, with scenic routes that offer breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Agnone is also home to a number of local festivals and cultural events that celebrate its craftsmanship and heritage, drawing visitors who wish to experience the town’s vibrant traditions.
Nearby, the town of Isernia offers additional historical and cultural attractions, including archaeological sites and museums that delve into the region’s ancient past. To the south, the vast expanses of the Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park provide further opportunities for hiking and outdoor exploration, while the nearby town of Campobasso offers a lively town centre with shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. Agnone, with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, is a perfect base for those wishing to discover the heart of Molise.
History
Agnone has an ancient history that dates back to the Samnite civilization, one of the earliest inhabitants of the region. Over the centuries, the town came under various rulers, including the Lombards and Normans.
It flourished during the medieval period and became known for its skilled artisans, particularly in the production of bells and metalwork. Agnone's bell foundries, dating back to the 10th century, are still in operation today and produce some of the finest bells in Italy.
It flourished during the medieval period and became known for its skilled artisans, particularly in the production of bells and metalwork. Agnone's bell foundries, dating back to the 10th century, are still in operation today and produce some of the finest bells in Italy.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Agnone
- Centro Storico di Agnone stretches along a ridge in northern Molise, its streets winding among stone houses, Renaissance palaces, and medieval churches adorned with intricate portals. The town radiates an air of refined craftsmanship and historical depth, with wrought-iron balconies, elegant façades, and hidden courtyards echoing with centuries of artisan life. Small piazzas open onto sweeping views of forested hills and mountain peaks. Walking through Agnone offers a journey into a place where tradition, artistry, and history live side by side.
- Chiesa di Sant’Emidio stands as one of Agnone’s spiritual and artistic gems, its baroque façade rising above a quiet piazza. Inside, visitors discover richly decorated altars, gilded stuccoes, and sacred paintings reflecting the town’s devotion and artistic heritage. The church has long been central to religious life and community celebrations. It remains a treasured symbol of Agnone’s cultural and spiritual identity.
- Pontificia Fonderia Marinelli lies at the heart of Agnone’s reputation for artistry, a historic bell foundry operating for nearly a thousand years. Visitors can explore workshops where artisans cast bronze bells using techniques passed down through generations. The foundry’s museum displays bells from different eras and parts of the world. It stands as Agnone’s proudest symbol of craftsmanship and global cultural significance.
- Piazza Plebiscito serves as the town’s vibrant social centre, edged by elegant palaces, small cafés, and artisan shops. The square hosts markets, music performances, and community events such as the Ndocciata, a fiery Christmas tradition featuring towering torches carried through the streets. Cobblestones underfoot and views of noble façades create a lively yet timeless atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to pause and savour Agnone’s spirited daily life.
- Guided historical and artisan tours in Agnone lead visitors through medieval streets, ancient churches, and workshops producing bells, lace, and copper wares. Local guides share stories of noble families, religious traditions, and the town’s enduring craftsmanship. Tours often include tastings of local specialities such as caciocavallo cheese, cured meats, and Molisan pastries. Exploring with a guide reveals Agnone’s unique blend of artistic brilliance, deep history, and authentic Molisan pride.
Agnone Tours and Activities
Comune di Agnone
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Province: Isernia
Region: Molise Population: 4,651 (in 2024 - source) Size: 96 km² Elevation: 850 metres Close by: Pietrabbondante, Vastogirardi, Capracotta Recommended accommodation: Masseria Acquasalsa |
 Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Agnone
Molise Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Molise
1. Termoli
2. Saepinum
3. Campobasso
4. Capracotta
5. Sant'Angelo Limosano
6. Bagnoli del Trigno
7. Isernia
8. Cerro al Volturno
9. Civitacampomarano
10. Campitello Matese
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Molise
1. Termoli
2. Saepinum
3. Campobasso
4. Capracotta
5. Sant'Angelo Limosano
6. Bagnoli del Trigno
7. Isernia
8. Cerro al Volturno
9. Civitacampomarano
10. Campitello Matese
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Molise
