Alessandria del Carretto
The village of Alessandria del Carretto
Alessandria del Carretto is a small village located in the province of Cosenza. With only 355 inhabitants, the municipality is one of the highest centers of the Pollino National Park, reaching 1000 meters above sea level. The village is part of the Authentic Villages of Italy association.
History of Alessandria del Carretto
The history of Alessandria del Carretto dates back to the seventeenth century when Prince Alessandro Pignone del Carretto founded the village based on an existing settlement. In the past, the territory had been donated to a monastery, but the version of history we currently know begins with the Marquis of Oriolo, Marcello Pignone who, in 1552, purchased the fiefdom of Oriolo with Montegiordano. Later, the fiefdom passed into the hands of the marchese's son, Alfonso, who married Costanza di Sangro del Carretto, daughter and heir of Del Carretto, taking the surname Pignone del Carretto. Their descendant, Alessandro, founded Alessandria del Carretto in 1633 with the intention of increasing arable land.
Monuments and places of interest
Alessandria del Carretto can boast some religious structures of great historical and architectural interest.
Mother Church of Sant'Alessandro P.M.
The Mother Church was built around 1600, at the same time as the birth of the village, and is the central focal point of the municipality. The mixed-style façade features three arched portals in the lower part, and a central monophora flanked by two niches in the upper part. The octagonal base bell tower rises on the left side of the façade. The interior consists of three neoclassical decorated naves, while the statues of the various main saints of the country are kept in the side aisles.
Chapel of San Rocco
The Chapel of San Rocco, located at the beginning of the historic center, is a very sober structure with a live stone façade. On the main façade, there is the entrance consisting of an arched doorway surmounted by a monophora, while a small sail bell tower rises on top. The parish priest, Don Yusti, donated the small statue inside the church called "Madona Nera".
Chapel of Sant'Elia
In the district of "Sant'Elia", one can find the remains of the homonymous chapel, probably built around the year 1000 by Byzantine monks.
Moreover, the village is immersed in nature and offers the possibility to make trekking excursions, visit the springs of the Coscile River and appreciate the natural beauty of the Pollino National Park.
Conclusions
Alessandria del Carretto is a village with a fascinating history and a charming location, immersed in the nature of the Pollino National Park. The religious monuments that characterize the municipality are treasures to be appreciated during a visit to the structure. If you are looking for a place to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature, Alessandria del Carretto is definitely a great choice.
