Matese, Mountain range in southern Apennines, Italy
The Matese range is a mountain system spanning across Molise and Campania, defined by its highest peak Monte Miletto and characterized by limestone terrain. The landscape features numerous caves, alpine lakes, and river valleys that shape its terrain.
The mountains were originally home to the Samnites before Roman expansion brought the territory under their rule over the course of centuries. This shift transformed the political and social landscape of the region.
These mountains hold deep meaning for the communities in the valleys below, where shepherds and farmers have maintained their way of life for generations. The rhythm of daily work here follows the seasons and the natural rhythms of the alpine landscape.
The mountains can be accessed from various points around the region, with different entry routes depending on where you start your visit. Seasonal conditions change what activities are possible, from winter skiing to summer hiking and exploration.
The mountain range is home to an extensive network of limestone caves and underground water systems that create hidden worlds beneath the surface. These geological features make the region particularly interesting for those curious about karst landscapes and underground hydrology.
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