On the paths pf the faith in Calabria

Religion in Calabria is an emotion strongly felt. The festivals, votive rituals and places where these are expressed, pulse and feed on continuously. The religious festivals, as well as the pilgrimages are the most vivid expression of folk culture. 

Fuscaldo 

Among the silence of the winding lanes we meet Fuscaldo, the birthplace of the mother of St Francis of Paola. Described as “the land of stones and wind” because of its alleys, buildings, churches and artworks of the historic centre which were all made of stone. The route develops along the quaint winding streets, the “Vineddre”, to exploring the palaces and the historical “100” portals of churches and monuments. 

Duration: 1hr 30mins

Belvedere Marittimo 

There are no documents in order to determine with certainty the origins of Belvedere. It is certain, however, that there were settlements already from the Bronze Age. Of considerable importance is the Cappuccini Convent devoted to St. Daniel Fasanella, the Protector of Maritime Belvedere, which preserves the relics of St. Valentine. Notable is the Church of The Congregation of the SS.Crucifix, in which is preserved a wooden crucifix of 600 that measures two and a half feet high, declared a national monument. Most characteristic is the castle which dominates the town. 

Duration: 1hr 30mins

Praia a Mare 

Originally a fishing village overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, in front of the ‘Island of Dino’, the largest of Calabria, Praia a Mare’s origins date back to prehistoric times. A symbol of great importance is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Grotto, located inside three rock cavities at about 90 mt. above sea level. Inhabited since the Palaeolithic period, the Sanctuary has always been a characteristic factor for the territory. 

Duration: 2 hours