Francavilla Angitola
Discovering Francavilla Angitola
Francavilla Angitola is a hilly town that overlooks the beautiful Angitola Valley in the province of Vibo Valentia. With its 1789 inhabitants, the town is a perfect place for those who want to immerse themselves in the culture and history of this part of Calabria, but also for nature lovers and panoramic walks. In this article, we will guide you to discover the secrets of Francavilla Angitola.
Physical geography
Francavilla is located on a low ridge at an altitude of 290 m, with the Fiumicello stream to the east and the Drago-Talagone watercourse to the west. Thanks to this location, the town enjoys a mild and Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. In addition, the panorama that can be admired from the top of the town is truly unique, with the hills that look like a dragon or a serpent.
Name origin and history
The origin of the name Francavilla is linked to the privilege of being a "free town", that is, free from duties and taxes, under Feudalism, after the Norman conquest of southern Italy. Francavilla has undergone various dominations, from the Byzantine to the Angevin, and up to the feudalism of the Hurtado de Mendoza family.
But the most interesting story concerns the legend that wants the foundation of the town by the Byzantine general Nicephorus Phocas the Elder, who, in the years 885-886, defeated the Saracens who were sacking towns along the coastline and built several settlements, including "Rocca Niceforo", subsequently, Rocca Angitola. The patron saint of the town, San Foca, is inspired by Nicephorus Phocas, while the name Angitola derives from the river that flows in the valley.
San Foca
San Foca Martire is the patron saint of Francavilla Angitola and is celebrated on March 5th and the second Sunday of August. He is a soldier who, after putting down his weapons, becomes a gardener. Sentenced to death for his Christian faith, he hosts his executioners, feeding them and digging his own grave.
What to see in Francavilla Angitola
Among the most important tourist attractions in Francavilla Angitola is certainly the Church of San Foca Martire, which dates back to the eighteenth century and preserves the remains of the patron saint. Not far from the church, you can admire the Civic Tower and the Baronial Palace, once a residence of the local feudal lords.
For nature lovers, instead, you cannot miss a walk to Lake Angitola, an artificial basin located at the foot of the town and which offers enchanting views of the entire valley below.
Finally, to discover local traditions, you can participate in the Sagra di San Foca, which takes place on March 5th or in the Fiera di San Martino, in November, where you can buy typical local products and attend folklore shows.
Conclusions
In summary, Francavilla Angitola is a town worth visiting if you want to discover a piece of authentic and traditional Calabria. Its millennial history, the beauty of landscapes, and the spirituality of patron saint San Foca make this place unique and unforgettable.
