Ciao!
It took us quite long time to decide what to start with our narration about Calabria. Some of you already know that we’ve been looking for a place to buy our holiday home in Italy. As many people around the world we started with Tuscany, but that’s a story for another time. However, fate led us one day to Calabrian lands. We landed at the Bari airport, rented a car and drove towards the Ionian Sea Coast. For the first time in Calabria, we got off in the town of Roseto Capo Spulico and this is where we will start our stories.
We invite you to come with us into the enchanting world of Calabria’s medieval towns, where history, beauty, and vibrant local life come together in timeless harmony. Through our photos and videos, we wish you’ll discover the unique charm of these hilltop villages and coastal hamlets, where narrow cobblestone streets, ancient castles, and centuries-old churches tell stories of a rich past. Each town has its own character, alive with traditions, local festivals, and the warm hospitality of its people. Join us on a journey to explore these hidden treasures, and let yourself be inspired to experience Calabria’s medieval wonders firsthand.
To start with, we will show you our video made in three charming old towns: Roseto Capo Spulico, Montegiordano and Rocca Imperiale. We chose these three – primarily – because we spent there a lot of time during our previous Calabrian travels. But also we want to give you an idea, what you can experience in this area while you have not so much time and you don’t want to go to far from one place to another. Through our captures you can see the proximity to the sea from there three unique places. Come fly with us!
Roseto Capo Spulico
Roseto Capo Spulico’s historic old town is a charming testament to Calabria’s rich past and vibrant culture. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea, Roseto was one of the satellite cities of Sybaris during the period of Magna Grecia. Roseto is famous for its medieval origins, with its castle, Castello di Roseto, as the focal point. Built by the Normans, the castle has witnessed centuries of history and offers sweeping views of the sea and surrounding landscapes. The castle is dating back to the Norman era, rebuilt in the thirteenth century by order of the emperor and king of Sicily Frederick II of Swabia, then was remodeled several times until the sixteenth century.
The town retains strong local traditions, with festivals celebrating its agricultural roots, such as olive oil and almond production. Local cuisine, filled with fresh ingredients from nearby farms and the coast, reflects the heritage and flavors unique to the region.
Today, Roseto Capo Spulico is a lively town, especially during summer when both locals and visitors gather for cultural events, markets, and festivals that bring the streets to life. It’s a place where ancient history and contemporary Calabrian life blend seamlessly, making it an enchanting destination for anyone seeking authentic Italian charm.
Montegiordano
Montegiordano, is a picturesque hilltop town with views stretching down to the Ionian Sea. Known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Montegiordano is split into two parts: Montegiordano Paese, the historical center perched on a hill, and Montegiordano Marina, the coastal area that comes alive in the summer.
The old town is filled with narrow, winding streets, traditional houses, and small chapels, reflecting the authentic character of Calabria’s mountain villages. Rich in olive groves and vineyards, Montegiordano’s agricultural roots are still evident, with locals producing high-quality olive oil and wines.
The town is known for its vibrant art scene, hosting mural paintings on many buildings, and each year it holds festivals that celebrate both its artistic heritage and culinary traditions. Visitors are welcomed with warm hospitality and can enjoy the stunning landscapes, local cuisine, and a glimpse into daily life in this charming corner of Calabria.
Rocca Imperiale
Rocca Imperiale is a captivating town known for its blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. Perched on a hill overlooking the Ionian Sea, Rocca Imperiale is most famous for its impressive 13th-century Norman-Swabian Castle, which stands as a symbol of the town’s medieval past and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and coastline.
The town’s historic center is a maze of charming narrow streets, traditional houses, and centuries-old churches, embodying the authentic charm of Calabria. Rocca Imperiale is also celebrated as the „City of Lemons,” known for producing exceptional IGP Rocca Imperiale lemons, which feature prominently in local cuisine and annual festivals.
Throughout the year, Rocca Imperiale hosts events that bring the community and visitors together, such as the “Festa del Limone” and poetry readings that honor the town’s long-standing literary traditions. Whether exploring its historical sites, tasting its famous lemons, or enjoying its vibrant community life, Rocca Imperiale offers an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Calabria.
It is not the end! We will prepare notes, videos and photos about about each location separately, soon!
