SALCITO
Salcito, nestled in a suggestive hilly landscape at 678 meters above sea level, is located at the foot of the majestic Monte Lungo. From the heart of the village, a paved road of about 4 km leads to the Trigno river, connecting this town to picturesque cities such as Isernia and Vasto, as well as enchanting villages such as Bagnoli del Trigno and Agnone. This corner of Molise belongs to the Cenozoic Morge Park, a territory that preserves natural and cultural treasures. Salcito is a perfect destination for those who want to immerse themselves in serenity and experience authentic contact with nature.
THE STORY
The name of the municipality of Salcito seems to derive from the hydrogeological characteristics of the territory, rich in springs that favored the growth of trees such as willows, lovers of water. The origin of the town probably dates back to the period of the Lombard duke Adalgiso or Adelchi of Benevento, who in 878 conquered Trivento, which had fallen under the dominion of the Saracens. During the Lombard era, reference is made to a place called "Salectu" along the Sangro river, which however could indicate the location of Saletta near Castel del Giudice.
In later times, Salcito was known as "Salicitum" under the Normans and Swabians, "Castrum Saliciti" in the 15th century, and finally "Salceto" in the following centuries. The destruction of the medieval buildings of the municipality is attributed to the devastating earthquake of 1456, which also hit Agnone. The main historical building of Salcito, the Palazzo Baronale Mascione, was built only in 1492.
Historical studies indicate that Salcito was part of a system of fiefs between the Trigno and Biferno Valleys, owned by Nicola d'Evoli. From the late fifteenth century, the fief passed to the Di Capua, De Regina and Spina families. Finally, in 1653, the Marquis Paolo Francone purchased the fief, transforming Salcito into the center of his family's possessions in Molise.