History Campobasso

bell tower of s. bartolomeo church in medieval centre of campobasso.

the origins of campobasso disputed. according held theory, city founded lombards before 8th century fortified camp on slope of hill castle stands. original name campus vassorum, suggesting city seat of vassals of duke of spoleto.

after norman conquest of southern italy, campobasso lost importance defensive stronghold, became significant trading , administration centre.

from 1330 1745 city ruled monforte-gambatesa family, built castle , established mint. later came under control of di capua, gonzaga, vitagliano, carafa , romano families.

the original old town of campobasso contains castello monforte, although in 1732 inhabitants built new town on lower-level plain. in 1763 citizens abandoned old city , settled in lower valley. current city expanded in 1814 king of naples joachim murat, , lies on campo basso ( low field ).

campobasso scene of heavy fighting during second world war. in months of october , november 1943 battle between german , canadian troops possession of city caused destruction of many public buildings, including city hall , archives held there. thirty 8 civilians killed in action, including bishop of diocese, bishop secondo bologna, , unknown number of people injured in intensive bombardment. occupation canadian troops, , administrative , political control resulting, had such impact on town became known “canada town” or “maple leaf city”.

in 1995 city awarded bronze medal civil valour in recognition of hard work done in clearing region of dangerous unexploded warheads, task lasted 1948.