Andali
Andali: An Arbëreshë Municipality surrounded by the Beauty of Nature
Andali, also known as Andalli in the Arbëreshë language, is a small municipality located in the province of Catanzaro, Calabria, that belongs to the Arbëreshë minorities in Italy. The town has a population of about 680 inhabitants living in a territory of 17.9 km² at the southeastern slopes of Sila Piccola, at an altitude of 650 meters above sea level.
Physical Geography
The natural beauty of the municipality is one of its main strengths. Andali is located in a very privileged position, surrounded by mountains and green hills covered with forests. The 360-degree panoramic view will leave you breathless, giving you a sense of peace and tranquility.
Origins of the Name
The name Andali may derive from the term "anda" which means uncultivated land in the local dialect. But according to another theory, the name may also come from the Arbëreshë language that its inhabitants still use.
History
Andali has a long and rich history. At its Albanian settlement, it was called "Villa Aragona" because it belonged to the Aragona, Dukes of Montalto. According to Domenico Zangari, the foundation of the hamlet of "Villa Aragona" was made by Albanian settlers from Vaccarizzo in Montalto or perhaps from Zagarise. The first information on the hamlet of "Villa Aragona" can be found in the ''Conto del Regio Thesoriero di Calabria Ultra dell’anno 1579-1580''. Another source of information is the ''Introyto per li fochi Albanesi che pagano per mita la dett'impositione'', where the hamlet is taxed for 12 Fuoco.
Throughout its history, Andali has experienced a strong emigration that has led to a reduction in its population. During its existence, the municipality has undergone two territorial modifications, losing the fractions of Cerva in 1850 and Botricello in 1957.
Symbols
The coat of arms of the Municipality of Andali is characterized by a red field with a silver tower of three floors, flanked by two palm trees. The tower symbolizes the strength and solidity of the municipality, while the palms represent the fertility and abundance of the territory.
Society
In recent years, the municipality of Andali has seen a decline in population due to the emigration of its younger inhabitants in search of work elsewhere. This has led to a population of elderly people who make up 40% of the resident population. Although most of the population is employed in public and private services, in the past there was a strong tradition in the hospitality and restaurant sector. In addition, numerous agricultural companies are engaged in the production of olives and wheat, as well as agritourism.
Economy
One of the characteristics of Andali is its "greenness". In 2019, an important wind farm was built, managed by Andali Energia S.p.A., which has a production capacity of 36 MWh and together with the numerous photovoltaic systems present on the municipal structures and on the roofs of houses, makes the municipality an example of environmental sustainability. In addition, olive and wheat production represent the main economic activity of the municipality.
Infrastructure and Transport
The municipality of Andali is easily accessible thanks to provincial road n.6 which connects it to Cerva and Botricello and then to the state road SS106. Just 15 minutes by car from the Ionian Sea beach and 45 minutes from the international airport of Lamezia Terme, Andali is an easily accessible municipality for tourists.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Andali is a municipality that boasts a unique natural beauty, a millenary history through which one can still admire the traces of Albanian presence, a "green" economy, and a welcoming population that keeps the Arbëreshë traditions alive. If you are looking for a quiet place, away from the chaos of the city and immersed in nature, Andali is the right place for you.
