Soveria Simeri

Welcome to Soveria Simeri!

Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about Soveria Simeri, a small town with a very interesting history.

Physical geography

Soveria Simeri is located in Calabria, in the province of Catanzaro, and is inhabited by about 1500 people. It borders the municipalities of Sellia, Sellia Marina, Simeri Crichi, and Zagarise. Its hilltop location, surrounded by green expanses of olive groves and vineyards, makes this town a peaceful and picturesque place.

Discover the history of Soveria Simeri in Calabria: culture and nature between Magna Grecia and local gastronomy.

Origins of the name

There are several hypotheses about the origin of the name Soveria Simeri, but one of the most credited is that the original name was "Trischene". It is said that the territory comprised three areas: "Simeri", "Soveria", and "Crichi". Following a strong earthquake, some parts sank and the entire area remained divided into three sections, on which the current towns are located. The name "Simeri" would instead have a Greek origin, as evidenced by the discovery of ancient archaeological artifacts such as the castle, of which ruins remain, and the cathedral, which is now almost completely ruined. Coins and amphorae from the Magna Grecia period have also been found in the surrounding countryside.

History

Antiquity

Soveria Simeri has a very ancient history dating back to the Magna Grecia period. According to some accounts, three sisters of Priam, who survived the destruction of Troy, landed near Sellia Marina and built three shrines (Treis Schenè), giving birth to the city of Trischene. It was first under the dependance of Pythagoras, while later, to escape the threats of the Bruzi and Carthaginians, it came under the protection of Rome, eventually becoming a colony, although it never became a "municipium".

From the sixteenth century to the present day

In 1541, the territory of Soveria Simeri was owned by Duke Ignazio Barretta, who belonged to the Duchy of Simeri. At his death, his property remained abandoned for some years until it became the possession of the factors and farmers who had served the Duke. It seems that the village was founded at the end of the sixteenth century by some members of the Grande and Gareri families.

During the fascist period, important public works were carried out, such as the construction of the municipal villa, the realization of the sewer system, and the strengthening of the aqueduct. After World War II, the community of Soveria Simeri further developed thanks to emigration to Northern Italy and Germany.

Today, this small municipality remains a peaceful and welcoming place, where you can breathe the history and culture of Calabria and taste the delicacies of the local cuisine such as nduja, spicy salami, and Greco di Bianco wine.

Conclusions

Soveria Simeri is a must-visit destination for those who want to discover the history and nature of Calabria. This small town, with its hilltop location surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, offers a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere. With its history dating back to Magna Grecia, Soveria Simeri is a unique place that deserves to be discovered. Come visit this municipality and let yourself be conquered by the authentic beauty of our territory!

Laura De Luca
Wrote by Laura De Luca
Updated Saturday, May 14, 2022