Cosenza Province
|
Latest page update: 1 March 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The Cosenza Province occupies a total geographical area of 6,710 square kilometres, including the provincial capital city of Cosenza, close to the Tyrrhenian Coast.
Within the province there are 150 separate provincial towns which are known as communes (comune singular or comuni plural in Italian). |
|
The total population of Cosenza Province is around 705,000 inhabitants. Among the visitor highlights in the province are the towns of hill towns of Altomonte and Buonvicino as well as the seaside resorts of Diamante, Amantea and Praia a Mare.
Related links
Cosenza Province • Calabria • Southern Italy
The Cosenza Province is located in the northern part of Calabria, in southern Italy, bordered by the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west and the Ionian Sea to the east. It is characterised by a diverse landscape, with rugged mountains, fertile plains, and scenic coastlines. The province includes the city of Cosenza, which serves as the administrative and cultural centre, as well as a number of smaller towns and villages that showcase the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
The province is home to several notable attractions. The Sila National Park, located inland, offers expansive forests, wildlife, and a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. To the south, the Pollino National Park, one of the largest protected areas in Italy, provides further opportunities for nature exploration, including rivers, mountains, and picturesque villages. The coastline of the province is dotted with beautiful beaches, including those in the towns of Paola and Cetraro, which are popular for swimming and enjoying the Mediterranean climate.
Cosenza itself is rich in history, with landmarks such as the Cosenza Cathedral, the Norman Castle, and the National Archaeological Museum of Cosenza. The province also offers a number of charming towns and villages, including Castrovillari, with its historical sites, and Altomonte, known for its medieval architecture. The region’s agricultural heritage is evident in the olive groves, vineyards, and citrus orchards that can be found throughout the province. Cosenza Province, with its mix of history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, provides a diverse and enriching experience for those exploring Calabria.
The province is home to several notable attractions. The Sila National Park, located inland, offers expansive forests, wildlife, and a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. To the south, the Pollino National Park, one of the largest protected areas in Italy, provides further opportunities for nature exploration, including rivers, mountains, and picturesque villages. The coastline of the province is dotted with beautiful beaches, including those in the towns of Paola and Cetraro, which are popular for swimming and enjoying the Mediterranean climate.
Cosenza itself is rich in history, with landmarks such as the Cosenza Cathedral, the Norman Castle, and the National Archaeological Museum of Cosenza. The province also offers a number of charming towns and villages, including Castrovillari, with its historical sites, and Altomonte, known for its medieval architecture. The region’s agricultural heritage is evident in the olive groves, vineyards, and citrus orchards that can be found throughout the province. Cosenza Province, with its mix of history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, provides a diverse and enriching experience for those exploring Calabria.
Highlights
- Sila National Park: Cosenza Province is home to the Sila National Park, a vast natural reserve with lush forests, pristine lakes, and picturesque landscapes. The park is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing in the winter.
- Pollino National Park: The province also shares a border with Pollino National Park, one of the largest national parks in Italy. It offers breathtaking mountain scenery, deep gorges, and diverse wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
- Historic Towns: Cosenza Province boasts several charming historic towns and villages, such as Cosenza itself, with its medieval architecture and cultural heritage. Other noteworthy towns include Corigliano Calabro, Rossano, and Amantea.
- Archaeological Sites: The province is rich in archaeological sites, offering insights into its ancient history. The National Archaeological Museum of Sibaritide in Rossano houses a vast collection of artifacts from the region.
- Calabrian Cuisine: Cosenza Province is renowned for its delicious cuisine, which features fresh seafood, locally-produced olive oil, and traditional Calabrian dishes. Visitors can savor unique flavors and regional specialties.
- Beaches: The province is blessed with beautiful beaches along its coastline, such as Praia a Mare and Diamante, where visitors can enjoy the sun, sea, and water sports.
- Festivals and Traditions: Cosenza Province celebrates various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing local traditions, music, and folklore.
- Wine and Agritourism: The region's hills and valleys are dotted with vineyards and farms, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy wine tastings and experience agritourism.
Provincia di Cosenza
|
|
Neighbouring region: Basilicata
