Badolato
Welcome to Badolato - a medieval treasure on the Calabrian coast
Hello everyone! Today I would like to introduce you to a hidden treasure on the Calabrian coast - Badolato. This medieval village overlooking the sea is surrounded by two rivers and is characterized by religious architecture and ancient stone buildings. Come with me to discover the history and attractions of Badolato.
Physical geography
Badolato is located on the Calabrian coast and is situated on a hill overlooking the sea. Located between two rivers, Gallipari to the north and Ponzo to the south, the village is surrounded by Pre-Serre Calabresi. The seaside hamlet, which was born in the 1950s, is located right in front of them.
Origins of the name
The name Badolato derives from Vadolato and was given to the city after the construction of a fortified castle by Roberto il Guiscardo, way back in 1080.
History
Badolato has a long history dating back to the time of Roberto il Guiscardo. Over the years, Badolato has passed through many hands, from the Angevins to the Di Francia family, the Toraldo and Ravaschieri. Finally, power ended up in the hands of the Pignatelli di Belmonte, who ceded it in suffeudo to the Gallelli until the end of feudalism in 1806. Throughout its history, the village has been damaged by earthquakes and floods, the last of which occurred in 1951.
Monuments and places of interest
If you love art and religious architecture, Badolato has a lot to offer. There are 16 religious architecture in the village, including the Convent of San Domenico and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Grace. There are also 8 churches, both internal and external, including the Church of the Immaculate and the Church of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria. Unfortunately, two of the churches were destroyed by fires.
Society
Badolato has a population of about 2917 inhabitants. It is part of the Union of Municipalities of the Ionian Coast along with other municipalities in the region, such as Guardavalle and Isca sullo Ionio.
Culture
The town has many cultural events throughout the year, including the Feast of St. Andrew of Avellino on November 10th and the Feast of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria on November 25th. But the most famous festival is the Affruntata, a religious event held in Badolato Superiore during Easter.
Badolato is a place worth visiting, both for its history and the beauty of its landscape. With its ancient religious architecture and strategic location on the coast, Badolato is truly a hidden treasure on the Calabrian coast.
