In the heart of the Sila Greca, at about 870 meters above sea level, lies the village of Bocchigliero, in the province of Cosenza, Calabria.
Among narrow streets and houses clustered together, the historic center of Bocchigliero reveals an ancient and rural time, evidenced by the characteristic sumpuarti, the stone arches. Ancient noble palaces alternate with places of worship such as Casa Barrese, dating back to the 17th century, near the Church of San Francesco di Paola, which houses a pipe organ and an antiphonary. Overlooking Piazza del Popolo, always the hub of social and political life, is the Mother Church of Santa Maria Assunta, which contains the Museum of Sacred Art.
The historic center of Bocchigliero becomes the perfect location for various events that tell its history and traditions. “The Memories Film Fest” takes place in summer and is dedicated, for example, to films or excerpts of films that recount a piece of Calabrian life, dating back even a hundred years.
The scents and colors of autumn become the protagonists of the Autumn Flavors Festival, which opens with the traditional Blessing of the Chestnuts, followed by the tasting of autumn specialties offered by various stands, as well as traditional dances and music.
Bocchigliero is one of the Borghi d’Eccellenza to be discovered at a slow pace among authentic Calabrian traditions. Along with neighboring villages, it is part of the Basilian Way, which traverses all of Calabria.
Near Bocchigliero:
- Elephant of Campana
- Archaeological Park of Paludi
- Sila National Park
