Spotlight on the art and nature of Casacalenda
Many associate this town with the MoliseCinema film festival. Among its guests, in fact, are often internationally renowned actors and directors.
But Casacalenda is not just that. Its territory and town center offer truly interesting experiences for visitors.
You can explore the Lipu oasis, the ancient Gerione, the Outdoor Museum of Contemporary Art Kalenarte, and the Multimedia Museum of the Bufù.
The Bosco Casale Nature Reserve, Lipu Oasis
For those who want to take a walk in nature, the journey can start at the Bosco Casale Regional Nature Reserve, the Lipu Oasis (Italian League for Bird Protection).
Established in 1993, it was the first of the reserves in Molise.
Walking along the nature trail, you’ll quickly find yourself in the forest, admiring the flora and numerous animal species.
In the oak forest, you’ll immediately notice ferns, as well as holly and hawthorns.
The cornelian cherry berries add a touch of color to the path, while the daffodils and sloe emit delightful fragrances.
Along the way, you’ll encounter a pond and three streams.
The Birdwatching Paradise
They host the Italian crested newt and the Apennine yellow-bellied toad.
In the forest, you can hear the green woodpecker, the crested woodpecker, and the song thrush.
A bit higher, you’ll find wood pigeons and great spotted woodpeckers.
Looking up to the sky, you’ll discover a rich presence of birds of prey.
In addition to the hawk harrier – the symbol of the oasis – there are also the sparrowhawk, the red kite, and the buzzard.
In the evening, there’s also space for barn owls, tawny owls, and little owls.
Birdwatching enthusiasts can also observe greenfinches, robins, turtledoves, and serins.
Not to mention the butterflies: numerous species are present in the oasis.
The Bosco Casale Regional Nature Reserve is open all year round, from Thursday to Sunday.
During winter, weather conditions may cause closures.
Visit the Ancient Gerione, Hannibal’s Camp
After a visit to the oasis, a trip to the nearby Gerione is a must.
Its ruins have much to tell. Here, during the Second Punic War, Hannibal’s army camped.
He conquered it on the eve of the Battle of Cannae.
The Italic city, initially inhabited by the Frentani Samnites, was revitalized in the Middle Ages by the Lombards.
Then came the Normans. They destroyed and rebuilt it, adding a tower, a palace, and a church.
The fortifications were expanded during the time of Frederick II.
But an earthquake in the 14th century brought an end to the history of this glorious city.
Casacalenda, however, is not just this. Arriving in the center, you’ll make other extraordinary discoveries.
A walk through the historic center would be enough to realize that.
The Ducal Palace and the Multimedia Museum of the Bufù
It would be enough to visit the 15th-century Church of Santa Maggiore or, even more, the ducal palace, dating back to the 13th century, to get a clear idea.
Yet, the journey doesn’t end here. Traditions also play a primary role in this Lower Molise town.
One of these is represented by the bufù. It is a very particular musical instrument. An authentic symbol of Molise’s popular culture.
It is a constant presence during New Year’s Eve, when, according to tradition, it accompanies singers as they wander through the streets of the town, offering their stornelli (traditional songs).
Around this special drum – made from a barrel, with animal skin on top and a cane stuck in the center – a multimedia museum has been created.
The project, which came to life in 2005, was realized thanks to the work of ethnomusicologist Matteo Patavino.
The Bufù Museum is currently housed in the town hall.
Welcome to MAACK, the Outdoor Museum of Contemporary Art Kalenarte
Another highlight of Casacalenda is represented by the MAACK, the Outdoor Museum of Contemporary Art Kalenarte.
Its works can be found in every corner of the town.
The project, inspired in the 1990s by architect Massimo Palumbo, has become a reference point for contemporary artists.
It has created an opportunity for them to present cultural experiments.
The result is evident for all to see: the dark corners of Casacalenda are being illuminated.
Art and architecture merge, creating rare gems of beauty scattered throughout the town.
There are approximately 20 installations created so far.
Meanwhile, the Franco Libertucci Contemporary Art Gallery has been created: it hosts about a hundred works, including installations, paintings, and sculptures.
Casacalenda is, therefore, a true treasure trove of art. And probably, summer is the best time to enjoy these treasures.
MoliseCinema, Auteur Film Festival
During this period, MoliseCinema takes center stage, a film festival that grows in importance year after year, attracting the attention of international filmmakers and actors.
The film competition consists of several sections that allow you to appreciate Italian and international short films, documentaries, and feature films.
In addition, there are many side events that draw the public’s attention.
Besides meetings with big names in cinema, concerts and shows of various kinds are organized.
Books are presented, and exhibitions are held. Workshops and seminars are also organized for true film lovers.
This is why a trip to Casacalenda is the best gift you can give yourself.
This is why – between nature, history, art, and events – it feels like living in an auteur film.
The special effects are taken care of by MoliseCinema.
Photo credits: MoliseCinema – Lipu Casacalenda
