Sailing to Molise

Ports and anchorages’ map

Italy Sailing Group

The coastal region of Molise

Molise’s history is often overlooked, but it’s packed with fascinating stories stretching back to the Samnites, who fiercely defended these shores long before Roman soldiers marched through. The Samnites weren’t builders of great cities, but their strength came in the form of rugged fortresses dotting the hillsides, giving them command over land and sea. These strategic strongholds allowed them to hold their own against the Romans in the Samnite Wars, a defiance rarely seen during Rome’s expansion.

Once the Romans took control, the coast of Molise transformed. Roman villas began to appear, often used as summer getaways for wealthy citizens escaping the heat of Rome. These coastal estates weren’t just luxury retreats, they were often agricultural hubs that contributed to the broader Roman economy. Olive oil and wine flowed through the ports here, destined for far-off markets across the Mediterranean. The area’s fertile land, combined with access to the sea, meant that Molise quickly became a key supplier in the vast Roman trade network.