Calabria is now becoming a more recognised region of Italy, in part due to visits from chefs Gino d’ Acampo, and the Hairy Bikers and actor Stanley Tucci tracing his family history. Together with easier access from a variety of airline carriers, including Ryanair, Easyjet & Tui.
The main area people associate with Calabria is Tropea, however there is so much more to this stunning region. Over the next few posts I would like to highlight a few of the beautiful towns & villages along the west coast of Calabria that are north of Lamezia airport instead of south!! The first one is Longobardi in the province of Cosenza and just 46km north of Lamezia Terme airport.
As with many of the towns along this coast it is made up of a historical centre located in the mountains, approx. 325m above sea level, and a marina beach front.In short, the historical centres were built in the mountains so that inhabitants could see the oncoming invaders. As that threat diminished people moved down into the marinas for ease of access.
Longobardi in the province of Cosenza.
The Lombard domination constitutes a long and significant chapter in the history of Italy. In 568 AD the Lombards, the “men with long beards” from Scandinavia, under the leadership of Alboin, crossed the Julian Alps, thus starting their expansion onto Italian soil. The Lombards invaded the Bruttium in 596 (the original name for Calabria) and took a large portion of territory from the Byzantines, corresponding, approximately, to the current Province of Cosenza. In 662 the Byzantine emperor Constans II waged war against Benevento, capital of the Lombard Duchy in southern Italy, but defeated by the Lombards retreated towards Calabria. Adelchi, the son of Desiderio, the last king of the Lombards, arrived in Calabria in 787 in a final attempt to reconquer the kingdom, but was held off by Grimoaldo III of Benevento.
The Calabrian Areas.
In 850 Ludovico, the son of Emperor Lothair of the Holy Roman Empire, was sent to restore peace among the Lombards. The Duchy of Benevento was then divided into two principalities: Benevento and Salerno; the Calabrian territories were further divided into three areas; Laino, Cassano and Cosenza; all dependent on the Principality of Salerno.
THE END OF THE LONGOBARD DOMINION IN CALABRIA
The Lombard domination in Calabria ended with the arrival of the Normans, who in 1047, undertook a military campaign which saw them conquer the whole of southern Italy, thus eliminating the Lombards and Byzantines.
THE LONGOBARD VILLAGES IN CALABRIA
Even though the Lombards left, there are many Calabrian villages that were formed around Lombard fortresses, among these is Longobardi with others including Tortora, Mormanno, Scalea, Laino Castello, Cassano all’Ionio, Cosenza.
LONGOBARDI TODAY..
Longobardi today still retains the distinctive parts of the historical centre and marina beach front. As you meander through the historical, narrow, cobbled streets you will stumble across many of its original features, including;
Birthplace of Blessed Nicola Saggio.
Longobardi is the birthplace of the Blessed Nicola Saggio. He was born in Lombardi on 6 January 1650. At the time, very few people could study, so he was forced to work in the countryside. He was religious and went to church. After years spent in Rome, he returned to the Lombards. In 2014 Pope Francis canonized him and he is now known as San Nicola Saggio.
Church of Our Lady of the Assumption.
The Madonna Assunta church is located at the entrance to the historical centre. It is a building dating back to the 17th century and is the third church present within the village. The main facade is very simple, with the door and window on the right and 5 characteristic arches to the left. The interior is divided into two naves and there are the tombs of Carlo Pellegrini who was bishop of Nicastro and of Arcangela Filippelli. The tomb of Elisa Miceli is kept in the chapel of the Madonna del Carmine. The upper exterior of the structure is topped with beautiful domes.
Behind the church there is the central piazza with a park area where the children can play while parents can enjoy an espresso or glass of wine and look out over the stunning coastline. The other piazza also offers the opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery.
At the Marina..
The beach at Longobardi Marina is situated on the coast just 5km from the historical centre. Here you will find a myriad of local amenities to include supermarkets, pharmacy, barbers, among others. You can also Indulge in Calabrian flavours at local restaurants and pizzeria. Savour traditional dishes that highlight fresh seafood, local produce, and regional specialties. The main speciality of Longobardi is The Longobardi violet aubergine (Melanzane Violetta) which is a historical cultivation in the small Calabrian village. The purple aubergine is characterised by its very thin and delicate skin. It can be used in its entirety and transformed into many mouthwatering dishes.
The beach stretches along the coast and is accessible at varying points. In the summer months there are lido’s and beach bars where you can hire sun loungers and then there is lots of space to sit, relax and enjoy the crystal clear water.
In Short!!
Cultural Events: Depending on your visit, you might have the opportunity to experience local festivals, fairs, and events that celebrate Longobardi’s culture and traditions.
Beaches and Seafront: Enjoy the sandy beaches and the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The seafront is perfect for relaxing, swimming, and soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
Historical Centre: Wander through the narrow streets of the historical centre, where ancient buildings, churches, and traditional architecture tell the story of Longobardi’s past.
Nature and Hiking: Explore the natural beauty of the Calabrian coastline by taking scenic walks or hikes along the rugged terrain. The coastal landscape offers picturesque views.
Hospitality: Immerse yourself in the hospitality of the local community, who are proud to share their town’s history and beauty with visitors.
Excursions: Consider day trips to nearby attractions, including historical sites, picturesque villages, and natural landmarks – Mountain biking at Belmonte Calabro, Kite surfing at Gizzeria, Rafting at Scalea, Thermal springs at Guardia Piemontese to name but a few.
Longobardi has a lot to offer and with hospitable locals, traditional setting, great views, superb food and crystal-clear sea – what are you waiting for!!!