Cirella
Cirella: Treasure of Calabria
Cirella is a small and picturesque hamlet of Diamante, a city located on the Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria. This locality is characterized by the presence of a rocky promontory and is rich in history and tradition. The hamlet is easily recognizable for the presence of the remains of its ancient medieval village, located on the top of the promontory.
An ancient village
The ancient village of Cirella, called "Ceriallae" in Roman times, was a thriving colony of Magna Graecia. In the 9th century, due to Saracen raids on the coast, the inhabitants settled on the promontory of Mount Carpinoso. However, even this place was not immune from attacks, such as those by pirates, which contributed to the fall of the village.
A history of plunder
The hamlet has a rather eventful history and has been attacked several times by pirates. In 1576, seven Galea Corsari Barbary pirates, led by Khayr al-Dīn Barbarossa, plundered the village, according to legend, due to the injustices suffered by a Roman merchant. The village was then subject to other raids.
The Decline of Cirella
The pestilence of 1656 and the earthquakes of 1638 and 1738 contributed to the decline of the hamlet, which fell into ruin. The property passed from one family to another, until it was besieged by Napoleon Bonaparte's troops in 1806-1807. The medieval village was definitively cancelled and the surviving inhabitants decided to rebuild the center on the coast.
The Castle and its Treasures
The Cirella Castle bears witness to the foundation of the village in the Byzantine era, but its main phase is represented by the arrival of the Normans in Calabria during the second half of the 11th century. Its imposing structures and perimeter walls were built to defend residents from external raids.
The Quarry and the Decay
After the fall of the village, the remaining structures were used as a quarry for marble processing, but were then vandalically stripped of the artifacts present. Currently, spontaneous vegetation has invaded the alleys and remaining structures, making passage difficult.
Cirella is a place full of history and charm. The presence of the ruins of the medieval village and the castle represents a testimony to the presence of different cultures and the evolution of life in Calabria. The locality is perfect for anyone who wants to spend a holiday immersed in culture and the past, as well as enjoying the beautiful beaches and crystal clear sea.
