Borgia
A friend tells you about Borgia, in Calabria
Hi friend! Today I want to talk to you about Borgia, an Italian municipality in Calabria. It is a small town with just over 7500 inhabitants, located south of Catanzaro.
Territory
Borgia has a historic center located on a hilly plateau and a coastal area with white sandy beaches. The coastal area offers a splendid view of the Basilica of Santa Maria della Roccella and the remains of the theater and amphitheater of the Roman colony of Scolacium, which is now part of the territory of Borgia. In addition, the city is well connected to Catanzaro via two roads, the provincial and the state road 106 Jonica.
Origin of the name
Borgia takes its name from Saint John Borgia, the patron saint of the city, who was sent there to create a new city.
History
Scholars have recently suggested that the origins of Borgia date back to a period before the foundation of Magna Grecia Skilletion. The ancient Greeks arrived on the Ionian coast in the 7th-6th century BC and found a population dedicated to animal husbandry and pastoralism. In the Gulf of Squillace, where Borgia is now located, there were already indigenous villages. It is believed that the term "Palagorio", from which the name "Palagorio di Borgia" derives, did not originally exist, but was only attributed to the most important village. The village was organized on the slopes of the hill still known as "H.orio".
In the late 15th century, Borgia was enfeoffed to the Borgia family, from whom it took its name, as the Spanish Borja family had obtained great influence in Italy.
Tourist attractions
Borgia is a historic center rich in noble palaces, monuments, churches, and ancient sculptures. Villa Pertini, Piazza del popolo, and Piazza Ortona are some of the places of greatest interest. Piazza Ortona hosts the 1852 cathedral dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint of the city, and the monument to the war dead.
The city also offers many options for those who love the sea, with white sandy beaches and crystal clear water. History and archaeology enthusiasts cannot miss a visit to the remains of the imposing Basilica of Santa Maria della Roccella and the Roman colony of Scolacium.
Conclusions
Borgia can be an interesting destination for those who want to discover Calabria and its history. The city is easy to reach and offers many tourist attractions both by the sea and in the historic center. I hope I've piqued your curiosity enough to make you want to visit Borgia!
