Isernia

Isernia is a town and comune in the Molise region of southern Italy and the capital of the Province of Isernia. It lies inland in the Apennine area, perched on a hill and serving as an administrative and cultural center for the surrounding countryside.

The city has ancient roots; in antiquity it was known as Aesernia, a Samnite and later Roman settlement. In the Middle Ages it developed under feudal rule, and the medieval fortress of Castello Pandolfo became a defining landmark of the historic center.

Isernia is also notable for paleolithic archaeology. The nearby Isernia La Pineta site yields remains and implements dating from the Middle to Late Paleolithic, including the Isernia Man skeleton. The finds are curated in the National Paleolithic Museum associated with the site and help illuminate early human habitation in the region.

Among the main sights are Castello Pandolfo, the Cathedral of San Pietro Apostolo, and various churches and historic streets that retain medieval and Baroque character. The historic center also contains Fontana Fraterna, a medieval fountain and water-feature associated with the town’s past.

The economy is primarily driven by services, small industry and agriculture, with the city acting as a local hub for commerce in Molise. Isernia is connected by regional roads and rail to the surrounding area and to Molise’s principal towns, reflecting its role as a provincial capital and cultural center.