It is one of the 25 arbëreshë municipalities in the province of Cosenza, founded around 1471 by Albanian refugees who took refuge here to escape the Turkish-Ottoman occupation of the Balkans... #tuttitaly
Civita, located in the province of Cosenza, is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. It is renowned for its fascinating history and deep cultural roots. This picturesque village is one of the 25 arbëreshë municipalities, characterized by narrow and winding streets that open up to the charming squares of the town.
The inhabitants of Civita are descendants of Albanian refugees who sought refuge in Calabria in 1471, escaping the Turkish-Ottoman occupation in the Balkans. Civita keeps the traditions of its founders alive, such as the Greek-Byzantine rite, which is still celebrated in the Church of Santa Maria Assunta.
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, built in the Baroque style in the XVI century, retains an oriental layout referencing Byzantine theology. Here, the Byzantine liturgy is celebrated, with icons painted by Alfonso Caccese and coming from Athens, giving the church a sacred and suggestive atmosphere.
The village is rich in mysterious atmospheres, embodied by the "talking houses" that seem to watch, speak, and even breathe. The ancient houses with menacing-shaped chimneys add a touch of wildness to the landscape, creating a unique and magical atmosphere.
Devil's Bridge
You cannot miss the Devil's Bridge if you are looking for a destination with strong emotions, breathtaking landscapes, and mysterious stories. It is a single-arch bridge that crosses the Raganello stream at a height of 260 meters between the spectacular gorges carved by the river in the Pollino National Park.
To reach the bridge, you must go to the historic center of Civita and contact the organization that offers a shuttle service with vehicles suitable for the steep descent slope. Alternatively, you can follow a long and strenuous path on foot, but rather suggestive.
Gastronomy
To complete the experience in Civita, you cannot overlook the local gastronomy, which combines the arbëreshë traditions with the typical flavors of the Pollino. Civita's cuisine celebrates authentic and genuine flavors, from homemade pasta dishes to delicacies based on kid meat and fresh cheeses.
Conclusion
Visiting Civita means immersing yourself in a past rich in traditions and discovering a unique and fascinating beauty suspended between history, culture, and magic.
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