San Martino
San Martino: a village of Taurianova between sea and mountains
Hello everyone! Today, I want to talk about San Martino, a beautiful village of Taurianova with about 2,000 inhabitants located in the metropolitan city of Reggio Calabria.
Physical Geography
San Martino is situated northeast of Reggio Calabria and southwest of the regional capital of Catanzaro, in one of the few flat areas of Calabria: the Piana di Gioia Tauro. Thanks to this location, you can quickly reach both the sea and the mountains. If you like heat and humidity, summer is the ideal time to visit San Martino!
History
The origins of San Martino date back to the mid-10th century when refugees from the ancient city of Tauriana, destroyed by Saracen invasions, founded this beautiful village. During the Norman rule, San Martino became a County and later the seat of Courts and States General. It was here in the Piana di San Martino that a decisive battle took place between Normans and Byzantines, which marked the reconquest of the Calabria territory.
During the Sicilian Vespers, San Martino was the scene of clashes between Angevins and Aragonese. In 1283, Charles II of Anjou convened a solemn Parliament of Prelates, Barons, Deputies, and Honest Men of the Kingdom in San Martino, where the new Constitutions of the Monarchy were proposed, discussed, and approved. Today, San Martino is a village that looks to the future without forgetting its glorious past.
Economy
The main activity of San Martino has always been agriculture, especially olive oil production. Today, in addition to olive growing, local agricultural economy actively operates in the sectors of citrus fruits (particularly oranges), vegetables and floriculture. If you like genuine and quality food products, don't miss a gastronomic tour of San Martino!
Events
The most anticipated and heartfelt festival in San Martino is that of the patron saint, San Martino di Tours, which takes place on 10-11 November. Thanks to this festival, many emigrants return to their village, even from abroad. The festival is characterized by musical evenings, festivals, and processions; the festivities end with the ascent of the Patron Saint and fireworks. In addition, the saint's ascent takes place every year on November 1.
In conclusion, San Martino is a village that will conquer you with its climate, history, and agricultural economy. Don't hesitate to discover this splendid corner of Calabria!
