Acri, in the province of Cosenza, Calabria, is one of those villages on the border between the two national parks of Pollino and Sila, although it lies at the foot of the latter. Its origins are ancient, but it developed in the Middle Ages according to the model of the Sanseverino-Falcone Princes.
Among the places to visit is the Basilica of Blessed Angelo of Acri, Lucantonio Falcone, the most important and imposing in the historic center, with a dome 32 meters high and two bell towers. Inside, there are relics and other memorabilia of the Blessed.
Other notable figures born in Acri include the patriot Giovan Battista Falcone, one of the protagonists of the Sapri Expedition, and the priest and scholar Vincenzo Padula, author of several essays and poetry collections. One of the prestigious events dedicated to him, not only for Acri but for the entire region, is the National "Padula" Award, now in its 15th edition, which annually hosts prominent names from the Italian cultural scene, from cinema to literature, such as directors Matteo Garrone, Giulia Zanfino, Francesco Costabile, and the Master Goldsmith, Gerardo Sacco.
The ceremony takes place inside the Sanseverino-Falcone Palace, dating back to the 17th century, now home to the MACA, Museum of Contemporary Art of Acri, inaugurated in June 2006. Within its elegant rooms, the Museum hosts works by local and non-local artists, including the evocative collection of glass works by master Silvio Vigliaturo.
Acri is one of the villages of excellence where culture can be felt even just by walking through its streets. Art is not confined to buildings but can also be found in the streets among symbolic sculptures and benches shaped like open books.
Nearby Acri:
- Longobucco
- Archaeological Park of Paludi
- Greek-Byzantine Rite Church of Acquaformosa
