The Roman city of Saepinum

Just twenty kilometers from Campobasso, you can step back in time and enjoy the luxury of a leisurely walk through a true open-air museum: the remarkably well-preserved Roman town of Saepinum.
Few people are familiar with this place of authentic beauty, nestled at the foot of the Matese massif.
The original Samnite settlement took on its urban form during the Augustan age, when its most important buildings were constructed following the classical Roman model. It then underwent a slow and inexorable decline from the 5th–6th century AD, without ever being completely abandoned.
Only many centuries later did people return to settle within the ancient municipium, reusing its spaces, building remains, and materials, giving rise to a charming rural village that is at once classical in character.
At any time of year, take your time strolling among the main buildings overlooking the cardo and the decumanus; be captivated by the beauty of the theatre, whose structures have been partially incorporated into 18th-century buildings; wander through the forum or among the Ionic columns of the basilica; linger over the details of the city walls and their imposing gates, and enjoy the evocative views offered by the site, where ruins blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape and nature.
The site is quite extensive (about 12 hectares), and a full visit requires at least an hour and a half. It is well worth it not only for its historical and archaeological significance, but also for its natural and scenic appeal, which greatly enhances the overall experience.
In 2021, the archaeological site was officially designated as an Archaeological Park—an important step in preserving and enhancing this extraordinary historical heritage. To access the park, visitors are required to purchase an admission ticket, starting from €10 for a full ticket. The price includes a multilingual digital tour that allows visitors to explore the site independently, as well as access to several exhibition areas—including the museum and lapidarium—which present, in different ways, the various historical phases of the town and its surrounding territory. An annual fidelity card is also available for €20.
At present, admission is free due to ongoing construction and restoration work, which partially limits access to some areas of the site.
For more information, opening hours, and updates on visits, please visit the park’s official website: www.parcosepino.it