Macchiagodena
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| Comune di Macchiagodena | |
|---|---|
 Municipal coat of arms |
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| Country |  Italy |
| Region | Molise |
| Province | Isernia (IS) |
| Elevation | 864 m (2,835 ft) |
| Area | 34 km² (13 sq mi) |
| Population (as of 2001) | |
| - Total | 1,961 |
| - Density | 58/km² (150/sq mi) |
| Time zone | CET, UTC+1 |
| Coordinates | |
| Gentilic | |
| Dialing code | 0865 |
| Postal code | 86096 |
| Patron | St. Nicholas |
| - Day | Third Sunday in May |
| Website: www.comune.macchiagodena.is.it | |
Macchiagodena is a town and commune in the province of Isernia, (south central Italy) located high in the Apennines mountains in the region of Molise.
[edit] History
The present name of the city appeared for the first time in a document of the year 964 CE as Maccia de Godena. It was a garrison post between the Lombard countdoms of Isernia and Boiano, and later an a sighting post along the Pescasseroli-Candela tratturo (shepherds' track). A great number of feudal lords came one after the other to take control of the castle (due to the high advantage point overlooking the valley), including the Pandoni and the Mormile.
Many of the early to mid 20th Century inhabitants emigrated to all parts of the world, to Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Canada and USA.
[edit] Main sights
The Castle of Macchiagodena, with a polygonal plant, was constructed on one limestone cliff spur. Of the Castle today only the basements of the old wall and two towers remain. Also noteworthy is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with a statue made by Francesco Saverio Citarelli from Naples, and a precious processional cross.
[edit] Culture
Macchiagodena is comprised mostly of farmers with a tightly knit community spirit. Every year during the 3rd Sunday in May a fine large fair is held to celebrate the feast day of San Nicola, the patron saint of the town.
A very peculiar tradition is still maintained by some of the population: known as rapimento ("kidnapping"), it consists in the kidnapping of the future bride some time before the wedding is celebrated. Another fine tradition is a local dance called "tuzacula".
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