Cosenza

The pearl of Calabria: history, culture and natural wonders

Bathed on one side by the Tyrrhenian Sea and on the other by the Ionian Sea, the province of Cosenza is home to Calabria’s main scientific and cultural hubs.
This is thanks to its rich history that began back in the Palaeolithic Period with the first human settlements, traces of which remain today, for example at the Grotta del Romito archaeological site in Papasidero in the Pollino National Park, where you can go rafting in the Lao River gorges.

History and culture in Cosenza are inseparable from the wonders of its two coastlines. After exploring the monuments, stately homes and churches of Cosenza’s historic centre, you can head for the sea and enjoy hours of relaxation.
The most popular destinations on the Tyrrhenian side include the beach of Praia a Mare and that of Tortora Marina. If you want to swim in the Ionian Sea you can choose between the beach of Roseto Capo Spulico, towered over by the Federiciano Castle, that of Rocca Imperiale Marina and the beach that reaches from Amendolara Marina to Trebisacce.
Be sure to visit Amantea to admire the medieval castle ruins and the San Bernardino da Siena monastery.