Castrovillari
Welcome to Castrovillari! An excursion through the geographical beauty of the city
Welcome to Castrovillari! A city located in the province of Cosenza, in Calabria. With a population of 20,932 inhabitants, Castrovillari is the most populous center in the Pollino National Park, surrounded by the Calabrian and Lucanian Apennines, representing a natural beauty that cannot be ignored. The city is located at 362 m above sea level on the southern limit of a plateau called Conca del Re, delimited to the west by the Coscile river.
The surrounding environment
The territory of Castrovillari is surrounded by lush and untouched nature. The city is located on the border between the Calabrian and Lucanian Apennines, and Mount Pollino, which is the second highest peak in the southern Apennines after Serra Dolcedorme, is located right here. To the northwest, on the border with the territory of Morano Calabro, is Mount Sant'Angelo, which dominates the entire Piana di Castrovillari. The Ionian Sea is 30 km away (along the Castrovillari State Road 105), while the Tyrrhenian Sea is between 50 and 110 km away.
Geology and seismicity
The territory of Castrovillari is located south of the Massif of Pollino, along the foothill strip of the limestone massif. Here, Pleistocene deposits are found, consisting of a marine succession of clay, sand, and clastic sedimentary rocks ## Conglomerates belonging to the suprapliocene-infrapleistocene cycle of the hydrographic basin of the Crati. Castrovillari falls within seismic zone 2 of Italy's seismic classification, with medium seismic hazard where strong earthquakes can occur.
Mediterranean climate
Castrovillari has a typically Mediterranean climate, with summers usually very hot, with daytime temperatures of up to 40 degrees. Winters can be periodically cold with temperatures dropping to 0 degrees. Snowfalls are periodic, like the one in January 2017 that reached a record low of -8 degrees.
Discovering the history of Castrovillari
The various archaeological artifacts found on the banks of the Coscile River (ancient "Sybaris") and kept in the city's Civic Museum testify to the site's occupation since the Paleolithic era; however, the first forms of organized life are evidenced by artifacts dating back to the Hellenic and Bruzian era.
Archaeology
Castrovillari has a rich ancient history, which can be explored through its archaeological finds. On the banks of the Coscile River, which was formerly called "Sybaris," artifacts dating back to the Paleolithic era have been found. In the city's Civic Museum, visitors can appreciate artifacts from the Hellenic and Bruzian era.
Historical events
Throughout history, Castrovillari has experienced many significant events. During World War II, Castrovillari was bombed by the Allied air forces, causing many casualties. In the 1960s, the city experienced a period of great economic development thanks to the construction of the dam on the Coscile River, which led to the irrigation of many agricultural lands.
Culture
Castrovillari is rich in culture and traditions. During the month of August, the feast of San Rocco, the city's patron saint, is celebrated with festivities and processions. On this occasion, traditional sweets and local drinks like mint grappa are prepared.
Conclusions
Castrovillari offers a unique mix of natural beauty and ancient history, with a vibrant and varied culture. The territory is surrounded by untouched nature, which can be discovered through outdoor excursions and activities. The city also has a rich ancient history that can be explored through its archaeological finds. And with the feast of San Rocco, the city offers a true immersion into local culture and traditions. Castrovillari is a place where you can fully experience Calabrian life.
