Mormanno
Mormanno: a mountain gem in Calabria
If you are looking for a small mountain village to visit in Calabria, Mormanno could be the perfect destination for you. This municipality in the province of Cosenza has only 2640 inhabitants, but is surrounded by unspoiled nature and framed by mountains. Let's find out more about its history and beauty.
Physical geography
The town of Mormanno is situated at 840 meters above sea level, between the peaks of the Costa and Vernita mountains, inside the Pollino National Park. The municipal territory covers an area of 78.88 km² and has a population density of about 33.47 inhabitants/km². Thanks to its strategic location, Mormanno is an ideal starting point to explore some of the most famous mountains in the area, such as the Pollino Massif and the Orsomarso Mountains.
The historic center of Mormanno is traditionally divided into four quarters: Costa, Casalicchio, Torretta and Capo lo Serro. Each of them has its own history and peculiarities.
History
Origins and etymology
The origins of Mormanno are not completely known, but local historians suppose that the village already existed in the Lombard period. The name, instead, seems to derive from the term "in montibus Miromanorum", which means "in the mountains of the Miromanni". The Miromanni were Germanic mercenaries who settled in this area in the Middle Ages. The name Mormanno would then have changed to Miromagnum and, finally, to the current form.
Developments
During the feudal period, Mormanno passed from the hands of the Orsini family to those of the Sanseverino family, which held it for over a century. Later, the possession was directly incorporated into the royal administration.
During the 18th century, Mormanno experienced a period of artistic and cultural renaissance, which was expressed in the restructuring of the mother church in Baroque style. However, the inhabitants of the village suffered due to the impoverishment caused by the taxes imposed by the feudal authorities and the cession of lands.
Following the unification of Italy, Mormanno remained a small mountain village with a small but robust population.
The beauty of Mormanno
Today, Mormanno is an ideal destination for nature and mountain lovers. The landscapes surrounding the village are spectacular and allow for hiking and walking in the woods and mountains. The panoramic views of the valleys below are breathtaking and offer a sense of peace and tranquility that is difficult to find elsewhere.
The historic center of Mormanno, with its churches and fountains, is a testimony to the village's past and culture. In addition, the village hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, where visitors can taste traditional Calabrian dishes and discover local traditions.
Conclusions
In summary, Mormanno represents a mountain gem in the Calabria region. Its historical past and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for lovers of culture and nature. If you are looking for a quiet and authentic destination to spend a few days in the company of nature, Mormanno might be the right place for you.
