Agnone Bell Museum (Pontificia Fonderia Marinelli)
Molise
The Agnone Bell Museum houses the Pontificia Fonderia Marinelli, the oldest bell foundry in Italy and one of the oldest family businesses worldwide, with origins dating back to around 1040. Located in the small town of Agnone in Molise, the foundry has been operated by the Marinelli family for nearly a thousand years, preserving traditional bell-casting methods such as the lost wax technique. Awarded the title of pontifical foundry by the Vatican in 1924, it produces bronze bells and church artifacts, including notable commissions like the bell for the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Jubilee Bell in St. Peter's Square. The museum includes historic workshops with traditional tools, exhibits of old bell fragments, and showcases the artisanal process of bell making. Visitors can also see the foundry's evolution from a small workshop to a museum dedicated to preserving this unique craft. The foundry remains active today, blending centuries-old craftsmanship with modern ecclesiastical commissions, making it a living testament to Italy's cultural and religious heritage.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit the museum during weekdays to avoid crowds and consider booking a guided tour in advance to fully appreciate the bell-making process. The foundry offers souvenirs and personalized small bells, ideal for gifts. Check the official website for seasonal opening hours and special events. Visitors may benefit from group discounts or combined tickets when available.
Interesting facts
- •The foundry produced the bell for the Leaning Tower of Pisa in 2004, replacing one lost during WWII bombings.
- •Pope John Paul II was presented with the Jubilee Bell made by Marinelli, now hanging in St. Peter's Square.
- •The foundry still uses the lost wax casting technique dating back nearly 1,000 years.
- •The company is one of the oldest family-run businesses in the world, now in its 27th generation.
- •Marinelli bells can be found worldwide, including at the United Nations buildings in New York and Rome.
History
The Marinelli bell foundry was established around 1040, with the earliest documented record from 1339.
Over centuries, it supplied bells to churches across Italy, surviving political changes such as the Aragonese rule over the Kingdom of Naples.
In 1924, Pope Pius XI granted the foundry the pontifical title, recognizing its ecclesiastical importance.
During World War II, the foundry was closed and repurposed by German forces, with bells being melted down for armaments.
After the war, the foundry resumed production, contributing to the reconstruction of churches like Montecassino Abbey.
The workshop expanded post-war, transforming into a museum to preserve its heritage, and continues to operate today under the 27th generation of the Marinelli family.
Place Guide
Historic Workshop
Explore the original bell-casting workshop featuring traditional artisanal tools and furnaces where centuries-old techniques are still demonstrated.
Bell Museum Exhibits
Displays of old bell fragments, historical artifacts, and information panels detailing the evolution of bell making and the Marinelli family's legacy.
Casting Room
The active foundry area where visitors can observe the bell casting process, including the preparation of wax models and clay molds.
Contact
Phone: 0865 78235
