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 Introduction
Hidden amongst its many winding lanes is the ancient castle, the 11th-century sanctuary of Santa Maria del Castello, the church of the Holy Trinity and a beautiful Renaissance convent dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi. This is the ancient part of the town with its elegant monuments, also called the “Civita”. The modern quarter is located at the foot of the Pollino Mountain.
Arrival Plane
Airport Lamezia Terme is the major airport of the region. From here, travelers can take a taxi, rent a car, or take the railway to reach Castrovillari.
Train
The Ionic Railway will take visitors to the closest station, Sibari Station.
Car
Take Autostrada A3 as far as the Morano-Castrovillari exit. Follow signs into the town. Another route is to follow the 106 up to “Villapiana Scalo”, then take the S.S. 105 in the direction of Castrovillari.
History and Culture
The center of the town has always been busy. Throughout the 12th century the town was slowly expanded. A Jewish settlement arose along the south-western slopes and schools lie within the remains of the walls, outside the town is a paper mill.
The ancient part of the town is filled with traditions. A local custom from the women of the town has them dressed in scarlet silk with hems in gold and a veil embroidered in white. This custom continues with the young girls of the town. Along with the clothing, there is traditional dances and songs of the città, like “the calabrisella” or “the tarantella”.
Churches and Museums
This 16th century church was originally a 13th century extension in front of the synagogue and this was incorporated in 1630 as a church. It has been enlarged and transformed to the structure seen today. The portal limestone is from 1568, the bell tower bears traces of overlapping arches from a bit later.
Convent
Around 1220-21 San Pietro Andrea, a disciple and companion of S. Francesco d'Assisi, came to the area and continued his work in Dissemination of the doctrine in Calabria. This work convinced him to found the large convent seen today.
Archeological Museum
The Group of Archaeological Pollino is the founder of this museum. Established over 25 years ago, the center completes archaeological research as well as preserving the cultural heritage of the region.
Historical Buildings and Monuments
This imposing Aragonese castle dates from 1490. At one point used as a prison, the castle now serves as a monument to the architecture and defense systems of ancient times. The castle is in the center of the city and dominates the plain below.
Ponte della Catena
Also known as “Bridge of the Chain”, this structure connects the two halves of the city.
Festivals and Events
Like many towns in Southern Italy, Carnival is an extraordinary event that combines exhibitions, concerts, serenades in the evocative corners of the ancient village and the three traditional processions of floats and masked groups. Some of the festivities are held in the Pollino National Park.
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Castrovillari Travel Guide
Double room - From 120€
Twin room - From 50€