Sacred architecture

In Molise there are numerous examples of sacred architecture dating back to the Norman-Swabian period. Though it cannot be claimed that the medieval churches of Molise are directly connected with the Normans, it is certainly true that they were influenced by their presence. The arrival of the Normans, though it did not solve the problem of conflicting factions, facilitated the work of the Benedictines and the influx of artists and craftsmen who were technically more advanced than the local ones, and helped to intensify trade with the neighbouring regions. At the time of the Normans the cultural environment of Molise was also influenced by the traffic on the pilgrimage routes, which stimulated closer relations with the Campania and Apulia regions and with countries overseas.

Some of the most important examples of sacred architecture include the church of St. Mary della Strada in Matrice (consecrated in 1148), St. George at Petrella Tifernina (in its present state it dates back to 1211), the cathedral of Termoli, the churches of St. George, St. Mary de Foras (1177), St. Leonard and St. Bartholomew in Campobasso, the church of St. Mary of Monteverde in Vinchiaturo, the church of St. Mary of the Assumption in Ferrazzano, the church of St. Mary del Canneto in Roccavivara, the churches of St. Nicholas and St. Adam and the cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption in Guglionesi, the cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption in Guardialfiera, the cathedral of Trivento, St. Mary a Mare in Campomarino and the church of St. Rocco in Petacciato.

  Termoli Cathedral
  Saint Mary della Strada in Matrice   
  Saint George in Petrella Tifernina   
  Saint Angelo in Grotte