Belvedere di Spinello
Welcome to Belvedere di Spinello!
Welcome to Belvedere di Spinello, a small town in the province of Crotone in Calabria with a population of 1,871 residents. This hillside city stretches across the Ionian slope of the Sila Grande and sits on the northern slope of Mount Castello, overlooking the confluence of the Lese river with the Neto. In this guide, we will discover the history and attractions of Belvedere di Spinello, a place rich in history and tradition.
Physical Geography
The territory of Belvedere di Spinello is located in the middle of the Neto valley and extends to the Pliocene hillside. The city is located near the confluence of the Lese river with the Neto and is divided into two centers: Belvedere and Spinello. The city is part of the State of Cerènzia and was founded in 1533.
Origins of the name
The name of the city derives from the proximity of the Belvedere fort built by Robert Guiscard on the Neto valley. Spinello, on the other hand, refers to Carlo Ferrante Spinelli, the general captain of Calabria at the time of Charles V of Habsburg.
History
Belvedere di Spinello has a long history dating back to the 15th century. The city was sold to the Carafa di Santa Severina in 1533, and was subsequently owned by the Barbaro, Rota, Sculco and finally the Savelli. The municipal autonomy was obtained in 1799.
The churches of Belvedere and Spinello, founded respectively in the 17th and 18th centuries, were rebuilt during the 19th century. In 1863, the two centers were united and the city assumed its current denomination.
Monuments and places of interest
Belvedere di Spinello is rich in monuments and places of interest to visit. One of the most characteristic monuments is the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Scala, built in the 18th century and then refurbished in the following century. This place of peace and tranquility is located at the end of the city, surrounded by pristine nature that hosts a 400-year-old oak tree with a trunk of 4 meters and a height of 20 meters in the center of the park. The Church has a Latin cross shape, with the main facade facing west and a single nave in Norman-Basilian style dating back to 1000-1200. Next to the church, the rock niches for burials are well visible.
Conclusion
Belvedere di Spinello is a city with a long history and a rich tradition. Its territory is characterized by Pliocene hills and pristine nature that offers absolute peace and tranquility. Visiting the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Scala is an essential stop to breathe in the spirituality of the place and enjoy the beauty of nature. Come and discover Belvedere di Spinello!
