Cosenza
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 14 March 2022
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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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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.
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Cosenza is a charming town located in Calabria, southern Italy. It is the capital of the Cosenza Province and is nestled in the Crati River Valley, surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains. With a history dating back to ancient times, Cosenza boasts a rich cultural heritage and offers a mix of historical landmarks, lively streets, and stunning natural landscapes.
History: Cosenza has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the ancient Greek and Roman times. It was originally founded as "Consentia" by the Bruttii tribe and later became an important Roman colony. The town prospered during the Byzantine and Norman periods, and it was a flourishing cultural and trading center in the Kingdom of Sicily.
Throughout history, Cosenza faced numerous invasions, including those of the Saracens, Normans, and Spanish, which left their mark on the town's architecture and culture. Over the centuries, Cosenza has witnessed various historical events and was an important hub during the Italian Unification.
Tourist Information:
History: Cosenza has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the ancient Greek and Roman times. It was originally founded as "Consentia" by the Bruttii tribe and later became an important Roman colony. The town prospered during the Byzantine and Norman periods, and it was a flourishing cultural and trading center in the Kingdom of Sicily.
Throughout history, Cosenza faced numerous invasions, including those of the Saracens, Normans, and Spanish, which left their mark on the town's architecture and culture. Over the centuries, Cosenza has witnessed various historical events and was an important hub during the Italian Unification.
Tourist Information:
- Cosenza Old Town: The historic center 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.
- Theater Alfonso Rendano: This historic theater 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: 64,070 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2022) Size: 37 km² Elevation: 238 metres Highlights: Duomo di Cosenza, Castello Svevo Close by: Sila National Park, Rende, Paola, San Lucido, Amantea Recommended accommodation: Vescovo Rosso Hotel |
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) |
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