The name is of Lombard origins and refers to Maginulfo, a member of the royal family Castaldo di Aquino. Municipality in the province of Isernia, situated on the border with the territories of Caserta and Campobasso, at the foot of the Matese massif, Roccamandolfi is a perfect starting point for excursions between the surrounding mountains. The main centre with its pale multicolored houses stands out clearly between the natural surroundings, creating a picturesque corner in the landscape. The municipal territories include, with its 2050 meters, the highest peak in the Matese massif.
Of medieval origins, the settlement was probably founded in the early years of the XII century, when the Mandolfus family, emigrated here from Germany and built a fortress. Roccamandolfi was subjected to the Lombards and was part of the County of Bojano. Subsequently it was conquered by the Normans and was granted by Charles of Anjou to Tommaso d'Evoli and Berengario of Tarascona. Throughout its history it submitted the domain of several feudal lords: in the XIII century it became a fief of the Roccafoglia, while in the XV century it was assigned to the Gaetani, then of the Cennamo, then to the Perez. Ceded to Baron Rizzo, in the XVI century it was acquired by the Counts of Trivento until it was re-sold to the Pignatelli, who ruled till the XIX century, when feudalism was abolished.
Attractions:
- the Church of San Giacomo Maggiore, with its single nave plan in Baroque style, preserves within a Chapel of St. Gaetano with a fine XVIII century altar, artwork of the Massotti and several contemporary decorative frames, as well as a wooden sculpture of the XVIII century;
- the Church of San Sebastiano;
- the Sanctuary of San Liberato;
- the Church of the Holy Martyrs;
- the remains of the Castle, situated at a few kilometers from the main village, on a hill, that dominates the surrounding areas. It has a simple layout with circular and semicircular towers. There is no reliable data on the precise date of its construction, but already documented since the XII century. It was dismantled on the orders of Emperor Frederick II in 1223;
- the XVI century cross roads in stone slabs. Located in the center of the town, it features a circular frame and has details that make it extremely original.