Alto Marchesato Crotonese: between history, nature and culture

Following the Aeneas Route, we set off from the port of Crotone to visit the city, the ancient Kroton, the birthplace of Pythagoras and the cradle of Magna Graecia, which welcomes visitors with a rich historical heritage, a lively historical centre and a splendid marine setting. The journey begins with a visit to the Castle of Charles V, an imposing Aragonese fortress, and the National Archaeological Museum, a treasure trove of finds that tell of the glorious past of Magna Graecia. Walking along the seafront and through the alleys of the old town, you will reach the characteristic market between Piazza Pitagora and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, where you can have lunch and taste the authentic flavours of Calabria with typical local products such as  Pecorino Crotonese Dop , the sardella known as the caviar of Calabria and an excellent glass of Cirò DOC wine. In the afternoon, in the footsteps of Pythagoras, a visit to the Museums and Gardens of Pythagoras is a must, the green lung of the city and an open-air museum dedicated to science, mathematics and philosophy. Crotone also has sandy beaches and a crystal-clear sea, ideal for a day of relaxation and fun. Visitors can sunbathe, take a refreshing swim or enjoy water sports such as windsurfing and kite surfing. We recommend a walk or bike ride around the town centre and a fresh fish dinner at one of the many restaurants on the seafront. 

The mouth of the River Neto is the starting point of the Val di Neto cycle and pedestrian path, an immersion in unspoilt nature. A green infrastructure, the 38-kilometre-long cycle-pedestrian path winds its way along the Neto river valley, crossing no less than six municipalities in the Marchesato region, offering breathtaking views and the opportunity to enjoy outdoor sports such as cycling, trekking and jogging, as well as kayaking and horse riding. Bird watchers can observe the rich local biodiversity and admire different species of birds in their natural habitat. Stop for a picnic by the river, surrounded by the silence and peace of nature. As well as nature and sport, the Ciclopedonale is also an opportunity to discover the picturesque villages, medieval castles and historic churches of the towns you pass through. The cycle path leads to one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, Santa Severina. Known as 'the ship of stone', it will enchant you with its timeless atmosphere and priceless treasures. The Norman castle dominates the village. This imposing fortress, one of the best preserved in southern Italy, overlooks the Saracen coast and houses the Archaeological Museum, which displays artefacts found during excavations. Climb to the top for a breathtaking view. In all its solemnity, overlooking Piazza Campo, admire the Cathedral of Santa Anastasia with its baptistery, one of the greatest testimonies of the Byzantine period in Calabria. Do not miss a visit to the Diocesan Museum, which houses a rich collection of sacred art. At the end of the day, you can spend the night in one of the quaint local agriturismo and enjoy the area's culinary delights, such as extra virgin olive oil, fine wines and tasty charcuterie.

On the third day, we set off again towards the uncontaminated nature of the Sila National Park, the green lung of the Marchesato. After 25 km you reach Cotronei, the entrance to the Park, and then the mountain villages of Trepidò and Villaggio Palumbo, where you can spend the day after a lunch based on typical Sila food and wine products. Sila is the ideal place for walking or cycling in the luxuriant woods, discovering the wild flora and fauna. Don't miss the cycle route along the shores of Lake Ampollino, an artificial lake surrounded by forests of Corsican pine and silver fir, the ideal place for water sports such as kayaking or boat trips, or simply to relax. For your overnight stay, you will have the choice between a chalet or a hotel.

The journey continues towards Cutro, where you reach the Calanchi del Marchesato, evocative lunar landscapes that Pasolini chose as the setting for his film "The Gospel of Matthew" in 1964. These fascinating geological formations, shaped like knife blades, offer trekking routes for all tastes, with breathtaking views. A picnic with views of the Calanchi is a treat for the eyes and the palate. Continue by car or shuttle bus to the Capo Colonna Archaeological Park, about 40 km away. Here stands the only remaining column of the ancient temple of Hera Lacinia, dating back to the 5th century BC, an impressive testimony to Magna Graecia. The Archaeological Museum and the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Capo Colonna complete the experience of following in the footsteps of Aeneas and breathing in the sacred atmosphere of the place. In the evening, the return journey to the port of Crotone is the end of a journey full of unforgettable memories.