Calabria: from the mountains to the coast

Sila National Park - Villaggio Mancuso

In the heart of the magnificent Calabria, among centuries-old woods and breathtaking landscapes, lies a natural and cultural jewel: the Sila National Park. Here, the deep roots of tradition are intertwined with the wild beauty of nature, creating a unique experience for the root traveler. Walking through the ancient paths, surrounded by the majesty of larch pines and centuries-old fir trees, you immediately perceive the strong connection between man and nature. A place not to be missed is Villaggio Mancuso, the most evocative residence among those in Sila, which was designed in the 60s by the entrepreneur of the same name. This charming complex, consisting of huts and fairytale buildings, enjoys the protection of the Regional Secretariat of the Ministry of Culture. This act of protection, the largest ever issued in Calabria, is aimed at preserving, defending and enhancing one of the most fascinating places in the South, giving it a unique status in Italy.

Address: Villaggio Mancuso – Loc. Monaco – Taverna, CZ, Italia

MABoS

MABoS The Museum of the Bosco della Sila presents itself as an authentic jewel, immersed in the millenary magic of this enchanted place. In addition to being a destination for nature lovers, it turns into an evocative ritual of connection with the deep roots of this fascinating land.

It is an exhibition and workshop park that blends art and nature. Accessible free of charge day and night, the museum houses works of art that have been continuously expanding since 2017. During the visit, you can meet artists in residence, participate in cultural events, talks and educational workshops for all ages. A dynamic place where art comes to life in the heart of Sila..

invaluable. The Museo d’Arte del Bosco unveils itself among the trees as a keeper of ancient stories, offering a deep connection with the past. Here, the past and the present intertwine, creating a place where the traveler’s roots are nourished by deep emotions, vivid traditions and the pulsating culture of a land that continues to breathe through the centuries.

Address: Loc. Granaro, Sorbo San Basile, CZ, Italia

Cicala

In Cicala, in the Vibrant Heart of the Pre-Sila Catanzarese, the traveller of the roots finds himself immersed in an enveloping atmosphere, where traditions and culture blend harmoniously to create a unique combination. A guided nature excursion reveals the ancient monumental chestnut tree and the evocative chestnut grove of the Basilian monks. Accompanied by an expert local guide, participants immerse themselves in the history of Cicala migration. The day continues with Italian courses and cooking class workshops at an artisan shop, where travelers from the roots can create typical local products. A trip to Cicala is therefore a journey into the past, the present and, above all, into the heart of a community that welcomes every traveler as a member of their family.

Address: Loc. Cicala, Sorbo San Basile, CZ, Italia

Taverna

Taverna, which has its roots in the times of Greek domination, inextricably links its name to that of the seventeenth-century painter Mattia Preti. Here, every corner tells the magic of Mattia Preti, his works are tangible testimonies of a distant era, a bond between the artist and his beloved land. Within the walls of the Civic Museum of Taverna, the artist’s works come to life, revealing the mastery of an artist who has left an imprint on the city’s cultural heritage. The Church of San Domenico, one of the most important seventeenth-century monuments in Calabria, is also worth a visit, where you can admire the works of Giovan Battista Ortega, Gregorio Preti, Giuseppe De Rosa, Francesco Ferrazzano.

Address: Taverna, CZ, Italia

Catanzaro

Catanzaro: The visit to the city of Catanzaro starts from the state archives of the Province, where travelers of the roots will be able to learn about their family history. The visit continues in the underground galleries of San Giovanni, dating back to 1070. These are tunnels that extend under the city, from church to church, crossing the three hills that house the capital at an altitude of about twenty meters below the level of the external level. Along this underground road system, intersections and crossroads reveal themselves as nodes in an intricate cultural fabric. The entrances and exits, like doors of time, open onto panoramas steeped in history and spirituality. The calm of this underground contrasts with the vibrant chaos of the city above it, giving the traveler a unique and immersive perspective. The day continues with lunch in a typical restaurant, where the traveler of the roots can savor dishes that tell stories of ancient flavors handed down from generation to generation.

Address: Catanzaro, CZ, Italia

Orange Coast

On the Ionian coast of Catanzaro we find Soverato, the pearl of the Ionian Sea. Between wide beaches of fine white sand, between the jagged coasts and the granite cliffs that alternate along the coast between Squillace and Montauro, there are the enchanting beaches of Copanello, Caminia and Pietragrande. The beach of Caminia, framed by cliffs, is a true paradise for the senses. Nearby are the Baths of Cassiodoro, a historic place where fish were once bred. This aquatic site has historical significance, linked to the Vivarium founded here, which included a library, a scriptorium, and a copying center for important documents. A short distance away, on the coast of Copanello, there are wide sandy beaches with shallow waters. Then, immersing yourself in the medieval atmosphere, you can visit the village of Squillace, known for its strong artisan tradition. The castle, majestic and well preserved, overlooks the town, offering panoramic views of the scenic and artistic beauty of the area.

We leave Squillace to explore the Roccelletta di Borgia Scolacium Archaeological Park, a place of great historical value. Dinner at a local seafarer

Gimigliano

Gimigliano is a small village on the southern slope of the Sila Piccola. Its peculiarity lies in the extraordinary and unique presence of the renowned local green stone, visible in churches, streets, palaces, balconies, boundary or retaining walls, steps and decorations. The visit to the town begins in a former quarry of the green marble of Calabria, thanks to the collaboration with the proloco. The knowledge of this important stone continues with a visit to the Gimigliano Stone Museum. This museum therefore plays an essential role in promoting the history and cultural roots of the country. After this immersive experience, we take a break enjoying a delicious lunch at a typical local restaurant.

Address: Gimigliano, CZ, Italia

Lamezia Terme

The visit to the city of Lamezia Terme starts from the Diocesan Museum, located in the Palace of the Episcopal Seminary of Lamezia Terme. The museum houses a rich collection mainly of liturgical objects. Its exhibition is considered one of the most significant among the diocesan museums of Calabria, with objects of considerable artistic and manufacturing value. Divided into seven sections, the exhibition presents works and objects made between the fifteenth and twentieth centuries. Among the works, there is no shortage of evidence of the Rogliano school which, starting from the sixteenth century, gave rise to a local production of high artistic value documented in various sites in Calabria. Particularly noteworthy is the marble statue of the Madonna and Child, known as Madonna delle Grazie, from the ancient Convent of the Poor Clares of Nicastro and attributed to Domenico Gagini. At the end of the tour, transfer to the airport or central station.

Address: Lamezia Terme, CZ, Italia