Jelsi​

Latest page update: 20 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
​The town of Jelsi is situated within the Province of Campobasso and has a population of 1,795 inhabitants.

Standing at an elevation of 580 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 28 km². The nearest hotels are 18 km away while nearby places of interest include Campobasso, Sepino, Saepinum, Oratino and Colletorto.
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Discover

Discover Jelsi
Jelsi is a small, charming town located in the province of Campobasso, in the central part of Molise, nestled in the foothills of the Apennine Mountains. Surrounded by lush green landscapes, rolling hills, and agricultural fields, Jelsi offers a peaceful setting that captures the essence of rural life in Molise. The town is known for its strong sense of community, traditional architecture, and the warmth of its local residents.

The town’s historic centre is home to narrow, winding streets, stone buildings, and charming piazzas that invite visitors to explore its quiet corners. The Church of San Giovanni Battista is one of the key landmarks in Jelsi, offering insight into the town’s religious and architectural heritage. The area around the town is also dotted with olive groves, vineyards, and farms, contributing to the agricultural landscape that defines this part of Molise.

Nearby, the town of Campobasso, the provincial capital, provides more cultural and historical attractions, including its medieval castle, museums, and markets. To the south, the coastal town of Termoli offers sandy beaches and a lively town centre. The nearby Matese Regional Park provides a natural haven for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the expansive landscapes of the Apennines. With its tranquil atmosphere, historical charm, and proximity to other scenic towns and parks, Jelsi offers a serene and enriching experience for visitors to Molise.​

Things to Do

Things to Do in Jelsi
  • Centro Storico di Jelsi rests on gentle hills in central Molise, its streets winding among stone houses, medieval arches, and quiet stairways that curve along the village’s contours. The town exudes a warm, authentic character, with rustic façades, tiled rooftops, and balconies bright with flowers. Small piazzas reveal views over rolling fields of wheat and sun-drenched hills. Walking through Jelsi offers a peaceful journey into a place where rural traditions and deep-rooted history blend seamlessly.
  • Chiesa Madre di Sant’Andrea Apostolo rises prominently in the heart of the village, its façade simple yet harmonious with the surrounding architecture. Inside, visitors discover wooden altars, sacred paintings, and delicate stuccoes reflecting centuries of local devotion. The church has long been central to Jelsi’s religious life and community celebrations. It remains a cherished symbol of spiritual and cultural identity.
  • Museo del Grano lies within the village, dedicated to preserving the history and artistry of Jelsi’s renowned Festa del Grano. The museum displays intricately crafted wheat sculptures, traditional tools, and photographs capturing the spirit of the annual festival. Visiting offers insight into the deep connection between Jelsi and its agricultural heritage. It stands as a proud testament to the creativity and devotion of the local community.
  • Piazza Umberto I serves as Jelsi’s vibrant social heart, edged by stone buildings, small cafés, and benches where locals gather. The square hosts markets, festivals, and daily moments of conversation under the open Molisan sky. Cobblestones underfoot and glimpses of the surrounding countryside create an inviting rustic charm. It’s the perfect place to pause and savour the gentle rhythm of village life in Jelsi.
  • Guided cultural and festival tours in Jelsi take visitors through medieval streets, the Museo del Grano, and sites connected to the Festa del Grano, an annual celebration of wheat featuring elaborate carro (floats) adorned with intricate straw designs. Local guides share stories of agricultural traditions, village life, and the artistry behind the festival’s creations. Tours often include tastings of local specialities such as bread, cheeses, and Molisan wines. Exploring with a guide reveals Jelsi’s unique blend of historical depth, artistic expression, and agricultural pride.
Jelsi Tours and Activities
Comune di Jelsi
Province: Campobasso

Region: Molise

Population: 1,615​ (in 2024 - source)

​​​​Size: 28 km²

​Elevation: 580 metres

Close by: Campobasso, Sepino, Saepinum, Oratino, Colletorto​

Suggested accommodation: Agriturismo Terra e Sapori (11 km)

  Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Jelsi

Photo Gallery

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

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