Cosenza
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Latest page update: 1 March 2025
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By Dion Protani
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The city of Cosenza is the capital of the Province of Cosenza with a population of 67,270 inhabitants. Standing at an elevation of 238 metres above sea level, the city occupies a position between the Sila National Park to its east and the Tyrrhenian Coast to its west. Catanzaro, the regional capital of Calabria is 100 kilometres south east of Cosenza.
Main sights in the city include the cathedral (Duomo di Cosenza) and the 13th century Swabian Castle (Castello Svevo) which sits on a hill overlooking the city centre, affording panoramic views. |
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Cosenza • Calabria • Historic Provincial Capital
An interesting legend surrounds Cosenza: that of the Visigoth King, Alaric I. In 410 AD the Visigoths had just sacked Rome before continuing their rampage south. The king is said to have died in Cosenza of a mystery illness but the greater mystery surrounds the location of his tomb. In order to protect his vast fortune, the Visigoths decided to bury the king under the River Busento which required a large number of slaves to tirelessly divert the flow of the river before constructing the tomb.
Once the king and his treasure were buried, the river was once again allowed to flow over it and the poor slaves were ruthlessly killed so that the secret wouldn't get out (they obviously must have let one or two escapees through the net!). With such a vast treasure rumoured to be under the river, the intervening years have seen all kinds of attempts to recover it but none as yet has borne fruit.
Cosenza has a centro storico (old town) but also a newer area and it's the latter where you'll find most of the shops and restaurants. The main square in this area is Piazza Bilotti and the main shopping street, Corso Mazzini.
Once the king and his treasure were buried, the river was once again allowed to flow over it and the poor slaves were ruthlessly killed so that the secret wouldn't get out (they obviously must have let one or two escapees through the net!). With such a vast treasure rumoured to be under the river, the intervening years have seen all kinds of attempts to recover it but none as yet has borne fruit.
Cosenza has a centro storico (old town) but also a newer area and it's the latter where you'll find most of the shops and restaurants. The main square in this area is Piazza Bilotti and the main shopping street, Corso Mazzini.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Cosenza Old Town: The historic centre of Cosenza is a maze of narrow streets, ancient churches, and historic buildings. The Duomo, or Cosenza Cathedral, is a must-visit landmark, with its impressive façade and stunning interior.
- Hohenstaufen Castle: Perched on a hill overlooking the town, the Hohenstaufen Castle offers panoramic views of Cosenza and the surrounding countryside. The castle is a remnant of the town's medieval past and is a popular spot for visitors.
- MAB Museums: Cosenza is home to two museums recognized by UNESCO as part of the "Museums of Mediterranean Diet" project: the MAB (Mediterranean Diet, Agriculture, and Biodiversity) Museum and the "Annunziata dei Teatini" Museum. These museums showcase the history, traditions, and culinary heritage of the Mediterranean region.
- Theatre Alfonso Rendano: This historic theatre hosts various cultural events, including concerts, theater performances, and exhibitions.
- Calabrian Cuisine: Cosenza is renowned for its delicious Calabrian cuisine, which includes a variety of local dishes made from fresh and flavorful ingredients.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by mountains and situated near the Pollino National Park and Sila National Park, Cosenza offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring nature.
- Festivals: Cosenza hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating local traditions, music, and arts.
- Calatrava Bridge: One of Cosenza's modern landmarks is the Calatrava Bridge, an architecturally impressive bridge that spans the Crati River.
Comune di Cosenza
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Province: Cosenza
Region: Calabria Population: 63,693 (in 2024 - source) Size: 37 km² Elevation: 238 metres Highlights: Duomo di Cosenza, Castello Svevo Close by: Sila National Park, Rende, Paola, San Lucido, Amantea |
My recommended accommodation options for Cosenza:
- Ariha Hotel Cosenza is located in Rende, approximately 3 kilometres north of Cosenza's city centre. This modern hotel offers elegantly furnished rooms with contemporary decor and amenities such as free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, a bar, and a fitness centre. Its location provides easy access to the University of Calabria and the A3 motorway, making it convenient for both business and leisure travellers. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
- Italiana Hotels Cosenza is situated in the business district of Cosenza, about 1.5 kilometres from the city centre. The hotel features spacious, soundproofed rooms equipped with modern amenities. Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant offering Italian and international dishes and utilise the fitness centre. Its strategic location allows easy access to major roads and local attractions. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
- Royal Hotel is centrally located in Cosenza, just a short walk from Corso Mazzini and the open-air MAB museum. This hotel offers modern rooms with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Guests can enjoy a rich breakfast buffet and relax in the hotel's bar. Its prime location makes it ideal for exploring the city's cultural sites, shops, and restaurants. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable).
- Palace Eight - Suites & Spa is situated in the heart of Cosenza, offering guests luxurious suites with elegant decor and modern amenities. The hotel features a spa centre with a sauna and wellness treatments, as well as a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views. Its central location provides easy access to Cosenza Cathedral and other historical landmarks. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end).
- Hotel Excelsior is located in Cosenza's city centre, within walking distance of the Cosenza Cathedral and Rendano Theatre. This hotel offers classic-style rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar and a continental breakfast served daily. Its convenient location allows guests to explore the historic old town and local eateries. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable).
Cosenza Gallery
Cosenza Travel
Cosenza's main train station is called Stazione di Cosenza and is located at the edge of the city, around 2.5 kilometres from Piazza Bilotti; a walk of half an hour or a 7 minute taxi ride. By train you can reach the seaside towns of Paola (33 minutes) and Amantea (51 minutes) without having to change trains.
The most convenient airport for Cosenza is Lamezia Terme Airport which is 72 kilometres away, a journey of around an hour.
The most convenient airport for Cosenza is Lamezia Terme Airport which is 72 kilometres away, a journey of around an hour.
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Public transport: train station 2.5 km from centre, local buses
By train: Paola - 33 minutes, Amantea - 51 minutes |
By car: Catanzaro - 1 hour 19 mins, Vibo Valentia 1 hour 20 mins
Fly to: Lamezia Terme Airport, 59 mins by car (72 km) |
