A beautiful discovery of the Molise are the archaeological sites of the region, which are completely unexpected to the visitor, in the open countryside. Not far from Agnone, near the village of Pietrabbondante you find the mind blowing Samnite sanctuary. An archaeological site where there is an almost intact white stone amphitheater, two temples, several other environments such as houses and shops.
Only a part of this area has been excavated where the Samnites, Italic populations lived and left us traces of their civilization. The most important document relating to the religion of these populations is the Tabula Agnonensis, preserved at British Museum. It is a bronze tablet dating from around 250 BC and written in Oscan, the Samnite language.
The Pietrabbondante site is expanding as excavations continue; is a fascinating place that can be accessed by paying a ticket 2 € (but since it is a state-run site, admission is free for children under 18 and over 65).
The most fascinating part is the white amphitheater, which stands out on the green of the grass, still used today for summer shows: just think that the seats are modeled with anatomical shapes to promote comfort. The main temple instead rests on enormous white stone blocks. There is a magical atmosphere, the site slopes downwards and from the highest points you can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley and the surrounding mountains. Also in this case, as for the surrounding villages, visitors are few and far between.
A museum on Samnite civilization is also located in Campobasso.
