Cosenza

Cosenza

Cosenza and its province are an authentic corner of Calabria, where wild nature and millennia of history merge in perfect harmony. The city of Cosenza, with its fascinating historic center, stands as a living testament to centuries of cultures and civilizations. Walking through its cobbled streets, you can breathe in the air of a past that has seen the influence of Greeks, Romans, and Normans. The Norman Castle, which dominates the city, is not only an imposing fortification but also a symbol of resistance and forgotten stories, offering a privileged viewpoint over a landscape that seems unchanged for centuries. The province, for its part, is a world of its own, rich in surprising contrasts. The Sila mountains, with their ancient pines and hidden lakes, are a haven of tranquility, where the rhythms of life seem to slow down. The small villages scattered across the province tell tales of ancient traditions, where time seems to have stopped, and the beauty of the places blends with the charm of the people who inhabit them. Here, the gastronomy is a journey through flavors, telling the soul of the land, from pecorino cheese to cured meats, from olive oil to chestnuts. Along the Crati Valley, Cosenza offers a landscape that stretches from the mountain peaks to the depths of the Ionian Sea, a mosaic of colors and contrasts that invites exploration. Every corner, every hill, hides a new perspective, a new story, and even the advancing modernity cannot extinguish the strength of tradition that animates these lands. Cosenza is not just a city, nor just a province: it is a microcosm of experiences, emotions, and riches that never cease to amaze those who venture into it.

Places to visit

Scalea

Scalea, a small gem overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, is an enchanted corner of Calabria, where the blue of the sea meets the green of the mountains and the warmth of the sun kisses its sandy shores. This village, nestled in the beautiful Riviera dei Cedri, holds an authentic soul, far from the hustle and bustle of more famous tourist destinations. Its narrow, winding streets, which climb towards the old historic center, tell stories of sailors and merchants who have traversed centuries of history, while the Castle of Scalea, which dominates the town, stands as a silent guardian of ancient legends and traditions. The beauty of Scalea lies in its contradictions: the summer vibrancy, when the town comes alive with tourists, events, and music, and the winter calm, which reveals the more intimate and mysterious side of the village. But it’s not just the golden beaches that make Scalea a special place; it’s the landscape surrounding it, with the Pollino mountains rising as guardians and the unspoiled nature inviting discovery. The Riviera dei Cedri, where the scent of lemons and cedars mingles with the salty air, is the heart of a territory that has managed to preserve its primal beauty. Every corner of Scalea is a revelation, whether it’s the ancient churches, the characteristic alleys, or the breathtaking views that open up to the sea. The local cuisine, rich in Mediterranean flavors, tells the story of a land nourished by tradition and authenticity, from fresh fish to spicy ‘nduja. Scalea is a place where history and nature meet sublimely, creating a balance that captivates anyone who decides to explore it, leaving an indelible memory of its authentic, timeless beauty.

Diamante

Diamante, located along the Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria, is a paradise that captivates with its natural beauty and authentic charm. This picturesque seaside village, with its brightly colored houses and flower-filled alleys, looks like a painting that blends perfectly with the crystal-clear sea and the surrounding mountains. The sandy beaches of Diamante are an irresistible draw for those seeking relaxation, as well as for those who love the clear sea and the hidden cliffs that invite exploration. The town is also famous for its murals, works of art that adorn the walls of its buildings and tell stories of tradition, art, and culture. Diamante is an open-air museum, where every corner has something to offer: from colorful sculptures to paintings decorating the streets, the town presents itself as a living canvas that celebrates the creativity and energy of the Calabrian people. Its historic center, with narrow streets and peaceful squares, evokes a sense of intimacy and warmth, inviting anyone to get lost in it and discover its genuine soul. But Diamante is not just art and sea; it is also a place of gastronomic tradition, famous for its spicy chili peppers, which are an essential ingredient in local cuisine. Typical Calabrian dishes, such as pasta with fish sauce or ‘nduja, reach their peak here, an expression of the rich land that surrounds the village. The town is also a cultural hub, with events and festivals celebrating Calabrian traditions and attracting visitors from all over the world. Diamante is a place that offers emotions in every season, where the warm summer sun reflects off the turquoise sea, while autumn and spring paint the landscape in warm, inviting tones. Its beauty, made of sea, art, nature, and tradition, captures anyone who visits, leaving an indelible mark on the heart of those who are enchanted by its welcoming spirit and genuine authenticity. Diamante is a gem of Calabria that shines with its own light, a refuge of serenity and inspiration where history and modernity intertwine in perfect harmony.

Amantea

Amantea, nestled along the Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria, is a small gem that enchants with its simple and genuine beauty. This seaside village, with its ancient cobbled streets and breathtaking views, tells a story that dates back to antiquity, influenced by Greek and Roman cultures, and the echoes of a past that has shaped the character of its inhabitants. Its historic center, characterized by stone houses and picturesque views, seems suspended in time, and the Castle of Amantea, which stands majestically on the hill, is a symbol of a place that has witnessed centuries of change without ever losing its essence. Amantea is a place where the sea, with its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches, blends with the wild nature that surrounds it, between the green hills that intertwine with the coastal landscape. Sunny days are marked by the sea breeze caressing the face, while evenings light up with warm colors and soft lighting, creating a romantic and relaxed atmosphere. Along the coast, the scent of Mediterranean scrub mingles with the smell of fresh fish, delivered directly from the local fishing boats, and the cuisine of Amantea is a celebration of authentic and traditional flavors. The town is also a crossroads of culture and traditions, where religious and folk festivals, markets, and summer events provide an opportunity to discover the warm hospitality of those who love their land. But what truly makes Amantea special is its ability to maintain a perfect balance between the charm of tradition and the vibrancy of modernity, creating a place that warmly welcomes anyone who desires to experience something authentic. Amantea is a corner of Calabria that, with its serenity and welcoming spirit, leaves an indelible memory in the hearts of those who visit, filled with the sea, history, and authenticity.

San Lucido

San Lucido, overlooking the Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria, is a small corner of paradise that preserves the essence of a seaside village. This enchanting town, surrounded by the beauty of nature, offers breathtaking views that stretch from the crystal-clear sea to the mountains rising behind it. The golden sandy beaches are perfect for those seeking tranquility and direct contact with nature, while the transparent waters invite relaxation or water sports in an unspoiled environment. The historic center of San Lucido is a maze of characteristic alleys, stone houses, and quiet squares where time seems to slow down. The town has retained the charm of old Calabrian villages, with its traditions, simple and genuine cuisine, and the welcoming atmosphere that invites visitors to stop and discover every hidden corner. The Church of San Lucido, which gives the town its name, is one of its spiritual landmarks, a place of reflection that reflects the devotion of its people. San Lucido is also an ideal starting point to explore the surrounding areas, where nature reigns supreme. The hills surrounding the town offer hiking trails that provide unique views, stretching all the way to the sea. The local cuisine, rich in authentic flavors, reflects Calabrian tradition: from fresh fish to homemade pasta, every dish tells the story of a land that thrives on authenticity. In every season, San Lucido captivates visitors with its tranquility, natural beauty, and the warmth of its community. It is not just a place to see, but a corner of Calabria where one feels at home, where the sea, mountains, and culture come together in perfect harmony. San Lucido is an authentic Calabria, to be discovered with the heart and senses, a refuge that offers peace and beauty in every nuance.

Paola

Paola, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and surrounded by the majestic mountains of Calabria, is a place where spirituality, history, and nature intertwine in a unique way. With its characteristic historic center, gently climbing towards the hills, Paola tells a story of faith and tradition. The city is famous for being the birthplace of Saint Francis of Paola, the founder of the Order of the Minims, and its sanctuary, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the region, dominates the landscape with its grandeur and sanctity. This place of worship, surrounded by greenery, is a symbol of the devotion that characterizes the people of Paola and a spiritual landmark for anyone visiting the city. But Paola is not just religion; it is also a charming seaside town, with sandy beaches facing crystal-clear waters, ideal for those seeking moments of tranquility and natural beauty. The coast of Paola is a refuge for those who love unspoiled nature, but also a relaxing spot where the sea breeze mingles with the scent of the Mediterranean scrub. The landscape surrounding Paola is a harmony of mountains, hills, and sea, creating scenes that seem painted by an artist. The local cuisine, simple and rich in flavors, tells the traditions of this generous land, where olive oil, fresh fish, and typical dishes are expressions of a cuisine that reflects the soul of Calabria. Paola is also a cultural hub, with its popular traditions emerging during religious festivals and the numerous events that bring the town to life throughout the year. The city, while maintaining the charm of a peaceful village, is a crossroads of stories, religiosity, and natural beauty, making it a place that captivates and welcomes anyone who wishes to immerse themselves in the authenticity of Calabria. Paola is a corner of serenity, a journey into faith, nature, and Calabrian culture that leaves an indelible mark on the heart of those who discover it.

Cetraro

Cetraro, a small village overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, is a hidden corner of Calabria that captivates with its tranquil and authentic beauty. This picturesque town in the province of Cosenza, where the crystal-clear sea meets the green hills, offers spectacular views and an atmosphere that seems suspended in time. The beaches of Cetraro are an ideal retreat for those seeking serenity, with clear waters inviting swimming and relaxation under the sun, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The historic center of Cetraro, with its narrow alleys and stone houses, retains the authenticity of a traditional Calabrian village, where life seems to flow more slowly. The Church of San Marco, with its simple yet elegant architecture, is a place of spiritual reflection for the community, while the characteristic promenade offers spectacular sunsets, where the sky is painted in shades of pink and orange, reflecting on the sea. But Cetraro is not only about the sea and natural landscapes; it is also a town of traditions, where Calabrian culture and gastronomy blend into a complete sensory experience. The local cuisine, rich in typical dishes, reflects the abundance of a land that thrives on agriculture and fishing: fresh fish, olive oil, and local cheeses are ingredients that enhance every dish, making every meal a celebration of Calabrian tradition. Cetraro is a place that offers much to those seeking a corner of tranquility, but also to those who wish to immerse themselves in the history and traditions of a town that has managed to preserve its authentic beauty. With its perfect combination of sea, nature, culture, and gastronomy, Cetraro is a small gem of Calabria that leaves a lasting impression in the heart of those who visit, a refuge of peace and unspoiled beauty.