Cosoleto
Discovering Cosoleto: a land of hills and agriculture
Cosoleto is a municipality in the metropolitan city of Reggio Calabria in Calabria, with a population of 795 inhabitants. Located in the pre-aspromontana hilly area, the landscape of Gioia Tauro overlooks its view and the local economy is mainly based on agriculture. A particular variety of olives, Sinopolese and Ottobratica, characterizes the territory's landscape.
The origins of Cosoleto and the history of the territory
The name Cosoleto, also called Cosolitu or Cosalitu in Calabrian dialect, dates back to the Byzantine domination period. Until the end of the sixteenth century, the area was Greek-speaking and culture and professed the Byzantine rite. In 1467, Ferdinand I of Naples gave the land in feudal tenure to the Clever family, then merged into the Spinelli baronial family. In 1566, the feud was sold to the Ruffo di Calabria family and in 1703 passed to the Tranfo family.
The history of Sitizano, on the other hand, dates back to the period of Santa Cristina d'Aspromonte, a feud first of the ContiRuffo of Sinopoli and then of the ContiSpinelli. It separated from the feud in the period 1666 - 1670 and was sold as a feud to the Taccone family only in 1648, after which the Taccone family assumed the title of Marquises of Sitizano.
In 1783, an earthquake destroyed the old castle and the monastery, founded by Father Beneventura, to which the church of San Nicolò was attached. The citizens, supported by the Tranfo Princes, rebuilt it in a safe and sheltered place, on a hill. It became a municipality in 1806.
The city's symbols
The coat of arms and banner of Cosoleto were granted by decree of the President of the Republic in 2000. The banner is a blue-colored flag.
Monuments and places of interest
Cosoleto offers numerous religious architectures: the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, located in the historic center of the city, is one of the most iconic places in the area, along with the Church of San Nicola, located on the hill. The Sanctuary of San Rocco in Acquaro di Cosoleto, located in the district of Acquaro, is another destination much visited by tourists. Finally, the Church of Santa Domenica in Sitizano, in the district of Sitizano.
Society and demographic evolution
The municipality is part of the diocese of Oppido Mamertina-Palmi and the vicariate of Palmi. The municipal territory is currently divided into two parishes, one dedicated to Santa Domenica (in Sitizano) and one dedicated to Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Since the post-war period, Cosoleto has undergone a strong migratory flow, which has led to a reduction in the resident population.
Conclusion
Cosoleto is a place of genuine charm, where the history and culture of Calabria shine. Here, the hilly landscape meets the enogastronomy of the region of origin: you can taste the typical flavors of its land, with products such as extra virgin olive oil, cured meats, and wine. Through its ancient churches and works of art, one can understand the history of the city: a vibrant and passionate history like its people.
