Terranova da Sibari
Hi there! Today I want to tell you about Terranova da Sibari, a town in the province of Cosenza in Calabria.
Physical geography
The town is located on a hill between the Crati River and the far-reaching foothills of the Greek Sila. The view of the Ionian Sea coast is fantastic, and from the town, one can admire the Pollino Massif and the vast Plain of Sibari. The municipality's territory has a total elevation range of 348 meters.
Origins of the name
The name of the town has a clear origin. "Terra" and "nova" refer to a new settlement. The specification "da Sibari" dates back to 1864 and recalls the name of the ancient Greek city of Sybaris.
History
Terranova da Sibari has an ancient history that roots back to the Magna Graecia civilization. According to many historians, the town was founded by the survivors of "Thurii" and destroyed after the war with "Crotone." The current name of the town, assumed after the Unification of Italy, is derived from the names of the two ancient cities of "Thurii" and "Sibari." Terranova da Sibari is known for its feudal castle (private) that gives particular importance to the historic center.
Monuments and places of interest
The historical-artistic heritage of Terranova da Sibari is precious and rich in artworks. Of particular interest is the main fountain in the town, Torre Acquanova. The tower has a long basin at the bottom with brick cladding and three water channels. Above it rises a tower with a square base clock with a marble commemorative plaque that reads: "Under Francesco De Angelis' auspices, the Municipality donated the waters to the applauding citizenry in May 1892."
Among the religious architectures of Terranova da Sibari, there are eight churches scattered throughout the historic center and its adjacent areas. The Church of the Convent of Saint Anthony, founded in 1542 by the Minor Observants, is particularly interesting. The Church of Saint Nicholas of Bari, from 1600, is instead famous for the miraculous finding of an ancient life-sized crucifix of medieval origins.
Terranova da Sibari is a town that will conquer you with its history, culture, and beauty. If you are in the vicinity, you cannot miss a visit to this splendid village.
