© All rights reserved. It is absolutely forbidden to modify or publish this file or its contents on the web. Exclusive property of the Consorzio Turistico Calabria Vigorosa free and unlimited time to the Municipality of Paola. Sale prohibited. Product distributed free and exclusively by the Municipality of Paola. The Calabria Vigorosa tourist consortium is a beneficiary company of Fondi Por Calabria 2007-2013 Pisl Local Tourist Systems / Local Tourist Destinations Pia. eGuide Paola
Mystical places and magical atmospheres
Calabria Vigorosa eGuide
3 eGuide
Calabria Vigorosa Guide
Editorial Director: Giuseppe De Franco Editorial board: Ettore De Franco, Lorenzo Principe, Mirko Di Maria.
Comune di Paola
Mayor: Roberto Perrotta
Regione Calabria
President of regional administration: Mario Oliverio
Collaborators: Luigino Capizzano, Fra Raffaele, Fra Domenico, Emilio Luppoli, Maria D’Andrea, Emanuele Carnevale, Alessandro Mantuano, Caterina Catalano, Roberta Vommaro, Alessandra Panaro.
The cover was created and donated free to the Municipality of Paola by the artist Francomà da Rende
For the kind collaboration we thank: Rotaract Club Paola Medio Tirreno Cosentino, Associazione Paolab, Associazione I Cammini di San Francesco, Escursionisti Appennino Paolano.
The translation of this guide was made with help of Google Translate
© 2018 Calabria Vigorosa eGuide Via Cav. P. Longo 123 87028 Praia a Mare (CS) Italia www.calabriavigorosa.it
The writing of this guide has been carried out with great care and great care and accuracy. However, we assume no responsibility for changes in schedules, telephone numbers, addresses or other incidents, or for damages or inconveniences from anyone suffered as a result of information contained in this guide.
4 eGuide The atmosphere unrepeatable
THE uniqueness that makes the atmosphere of the City of San Francesco unrepeatable is the result of a multitude of elements that, like the tesserae of a domino, have been ordered until the present moment, preserving every detail of the initial design. Paola is rooted in a millenary land, a deep groove full of traces and testimonies, fertile of Humanity and fertile History. Facilitated in its development by its proximity to the sea, this Tyrrhenian pearl has been a crossroads of trade and culture, the cradle of the Calabrian coastal progress that, on the western shores, had not fully known the glories of Magna Graecia. From the pristine beach, Paola climbs up to the slopes of the coastal chain, in an evocative succession of variegated scenarios that blend together all the elements of an unequaled identity. A spirit that is affirmed in the split peasants of the districts, in the unpolished stones of the historic center and of archaeological sites of interest, among the vineyards and the foothills of the piedmont that dot the heart of Calabrian Christianity: the Sanctuary of San Francesco. Ancient village, carved in the architecture of austere palaces, the urban center is offered in the possibility of suggestions that, from the Porta di Mare, spread beyond the Arch of San Francesco, passing through the Christmas house of the Saint, the church of Montevergine and the splendid Duomo, spreading among narrow streets that have remained intact from the Middle Ages and that lead, once crossed the districts of the Rocchetta, del Cancello and della Motta, in front of what remains of the splendid Castle. Expanded city, with industrious outskirts and impregnated with ancient history, to the north set in two Byzantine churches and in the remains of a Roman villa, while to the south is witnessed by the solemn presence of the Monastery of St. Maria di Valle Josaphat, Badia where Riccardo stayed "Heart of lion". Paola is a city to live all year round and thanks to this guide - for whose realization I have to thank the Calabria Region - it will be possible to visit it without feeling any extraneousness, because everyone who is passing or stopping in this place can share the pride of feeling "Pauline".
Roberto Perrotta - Sindaco di Paola
5 eGuide In the name of the Saint of Charity
BETWEEN sea and mountains. This is one of the first impressions or possible reflections on the city of Paola. But besides the splendid geographical position, the charming town is remembered for the figure of St. Francesco. In fact, being Paolan means living in the name of the Saint of Charity. It is difficult, not to say impossible, to avoid the relationship between one's own origins and those of such an imposing figure. A relationship that involves, in particular, feeling the will and responsibility to contribute to the memory of a man who has made his work and its origins a boast not only in the Calabrian territory, but throughout the world.
This importance, as well as that of the city, is widely expressed by this work, rather attentive to detail and captivating to the eye of the curious reader who will find a reference point during the exploration of the Calabrian town. The latter is widely valued through the simple but accurate description of its most emblematic and prominent beauties on the territory. Of great importance and usefulness are the list of restaurants and that of the most renowned accommodation facilities, useful for visitors who want to combine the pleasure of the eyes with that of the table and physical well-being. But what makes this analysis even more interesting is the introduction of Google Maps photos, an aspect that performs a double function, that is to say, to wrap the work in the current technological wave and to act as a visual, therefore tangible, support to the description , giving value to the concept of "guidance" in its entirety.
Caterina Catalano - Past President Rotaract club Paola Medio Tirreno Cosentino
6 eGuide PAOLA today is an important city of Calabria not only for the presence of the Sanctuary of San Francesco, but also because it is a major commercial hub between the capital city of the province, Cosenza, and the Tyrrhenian coast. The railway pole that connects fast and frequent Rome and Reggio Calabria is of great importance. Paola is also a very popular seaside resort with a beautiful promenade and a very wide sand and sand beach. The facilities, the premises and the water sports services are of a good standard. The Calabrian seaside villages are all marked by the struggles they have undertaken to defend themselves from pirates who in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries have infested that stretch of sea in search of treasures. In their robberies, the populations suffered the most unprecedented violence. They had no qualms about women (they raped them consistently) and children, while men resisted being killed. This is why every village in the Tyrrhenian Sea (the Ionian suffered attacks but to a lesser extent) equipped itself with sighting towers. At the sight of the first ships the inhabitants were hiding in the inland areas, making it find deserted houses and streets. This sad phenomenon blocked the economic development and social progress of coastal populations for many decades. The city, built on the slopes of the mountain of the Sanctuary, has developed over time towards the sea where very populated neighborhoods have arisen and where seaside tourism has had its maximum splendor in the 60s and 70s. The ancient center has preserved very well the medieval characteristics in sharp contrast with the palaces built in the marine area that is very lively and frequent not only in summer, but throughout the year.
Giuseppe De Franco Editorial director eGuide
7 eGuide Sommario
How to consult the guide 9
Restaurants 10
Accomodations 12
Transportations and travel agencies 12
Mobile network and security 12
Useful numbers 15
Territory and population 16
The Basilica of San Francesco 19
The hermit of the 4 worlds 23
The Tower of the castle 27
The Roman villa of Cutura 28
The church of Sotterra 29
The church of San Michele 30
The birth house of the Saint 30
The churches of Paola 31
Walking 33
A Palummara 35
Events 36
Note Bibliography: R. Gentile, La Città del Pavone (Publiepa); Paola (Rubbettino); Città di Paola - Guida Turistica; Enciclopedia della Calabria (Quotidiano della Calabria); P. Rodari. Francesco di Paola, un eremita nel mondo (Rubbettino); Beni culturali di Calabria (Gangemi); Le anfore dagli scavi di Paola, T. Tosti (academia.edu); A. Castiglione “San Francesco di Paola - vita illustrata (Charitas Paola). Iconographic references: Foto di Luigino Capizzano per gentile concessione dell’autore; archivio fotografico Calabria Vigorosa; Archivio fotografico Associazione Paolab; Archivio Wikipedia Commons, Archivio fotografico Escursionisti Appennino Paolano. Calabria Vigorosa is available to fulfill its commitments towards the holder of any rights on published materials.
8 eGuide HOW TO CONSULT THE GUIDE The guide is designed to be consulted on the mobile phone or tablet. It is a Pdf file that always shows one page at a time. After receiving the file, we suggest downloading it to your mobile phone, opening it and activating the "Add to home screen" function. This way it can be opened even without an Internet connection. Just the charged battery.
The file is also provided in ePub format. It is also visible on the smartphone, but it is a format more suited to a larger screen (tablet or PC).
The printing of this brochure is forbidden under the law
Practical information and addresses
This section shows the places to spend a few hours in peace. Places to eat and where to sleep, useful phones, transport, cell phone coverage. All the city and everything you need for the visit. You will find also the name of professional guides in case you want to be accompanied by nice and competent people.
Culture and environment
In this section we host the description of the most important places of the village. There are also short essays that introduce to history, geography, art, traditions, the specifics of the city and the territory. In short, we provide an overview and an essential chronology in terms of art and local culture.
Walking
This section organizes the visit generally with walking itineraries. In the online version an interactive map will be provided with an indication of the locations and routes.
9 eGuide
Restaurants, pubs, taverns
Simple and tasty. We eat in the sign of tradition. Meat, fish and a good appetizer. You will not be disappointed even in the price.
Atmosfera versatile - Lungomare S. Francesco di Paola, 34
� - � +39 339 629 8350 - � Italian, fish, international
Beach Story - Lungomare S. Francesco di Paola, 74
� - � n. a. � n.a.
Il Boccone del Re - 11, Via S. Leonardo
� - � +39 0982 611399 - � Italian mediterranean, fish
Enotica Hostaria/Wine bar - Via S. Agata, 81
� - � +39 328 329 1216 - � Fish - Meat
Eureka - Via del Cannone, 1
� - � +39 0982 587356 - � Pizza
Flora Ristorante Pizzeria - Via Lungomare, 8
� - � +39 345 338 4001 - � Pizza, Med. - Gluten free
Focetola Luigino & C. - Corso Garibaldi, 4
� - � +39 0982 582367 - � Mediterranean, Pub
Free Time - SS 18
� - � +39 0982 611298 - � Pizza
Groove & Wine - Corso Roma, 41
� - � +39 320 656 9715 - � Fish, Mediterranean, Wine bar
Happy Days - Via Nazionale, 44
� - � +39 342 003 0304 - � Pizza
10 eGuide
Le Arcate - Via G. Valitutti, 9
� - � +39 0982 585377 - � Pizza, Mediterranean
Mangiafuoco - Via G. Valitutti, 26-27
� - � +39 342 085 8088 - � Grill
Milano by night - Via S. Agata, 147-107
� - � +39 340 145 2017 - � n.a.
Pulcinella Pizzeria - Via Pellegrino, 10
� - � +39 0982 583505 - � Pizza
Sancho Panza - Rione S. Agata, 38
� Martedì - � +39 0982 612155 - � Italian - Pizza
Trattoria da Capone - Corso Garibaldi 50
� - � +39 0982 582561/+39 328 107 3585 - � Traditional
Vecchia Paola - Corso Garibaldi, 75
� Lunedì - � +39 0982 583162 - � Pizza, Mediterranean
11 eGuide
Dormire
Wide offer. Hotels, B & B, rooms for rent, agritourism, all you need to feel good at very affordable prices.
� Hotel Alhambra - Via della Civilta 56
✩✩✩ - � +39 0982 582240 - Average prices: n.a.
� Albergo Blumentag - Viale Magna Grecia
✩✩✩ - � +39 0982 613544 - Average prices; 69
� Hotel S. Agostino - Vico Fiumicello, 6
✩✩✩ - � +39 0982 582414 - Average prices: 49-60
� Hotel San Francesco - Via della Timpa, 3
✩✩✩ - � +39 0982 611457 - Average prices: n.a.
� Le Chiatre - Via della Pilusella 15
- � +39 340 918 9124 - Average prices: 60
� Il Borgo - Via C. Vaticano, 31
- � +39 380 348 8888 Average prices: 55
� Il Castello - Via Lungomare, 5
- � +39 0982 610911 - Average prices: n.a.
� L'Antico Forno - Corso Cristoforo Colombo, 77
- � +39 320 904 5827 - Average prices: 45
� La Chambre - Corso Roma
- � +39 340 818 7362 - Average prices: 55
� La Piazzetta - Corso Garibaldi, 7
- � +39 0982 585133 - Average prices: 55
12 eGuide
� Rinascente - Via Capo d’Armi, 17
- � +39 0982 610659 - Average prices: n.a.
� Roses - Via S. Leonardo, 47
- � +39 0982 621421 - Average prices: 60
� Rosy - Corso Garibaldi, 4
- � +39 389 855 3097 - Average prices: 50
� Villa Catalano - Via Fiego, 13
- � +39 0982 610594 - Average prices: 75
� Villaggio La Bussola - Via Arenile, 18
- � +39 348 315 2525 Average prices: n.a.
13 eGuide Useful information
Transportation
Trains. The Ferrovie dello Stato station is one of the most important in Calabria. It is well connected to Rome, Reggio Calabria, Cosenza and Lamezia Terme. It is also served by the Trenitalia regional service. Line bus. The service is carried out by Autoservizi Preite. It is very efficient and connects Paola with Cosenza, Lamezia Terme and Praia a Mare. Preite also manages the municipal service from the train station to the center and to the Sanctuary of San Francesco. Timetables vary during summer and in school. For timetables and tariffs it is better to call the dealer at +39 0984 413001.
Travel agencies
� Batida Travel - Piazza IV Novembre, 21
� +39 0982 582054 - Giuseppina Cappadonna
� Visamar Travel - Via S. Agata, 16
� +39 349 054 4325 - Marco Borgese
� Viaggi Lab - Via Nuova del Porto,21
� +39 0982 612455 - Davila Sorrentino
Cellular network coverage
From the data available on the website of the Ministry of Economic Development, the coverage of the cellular network for 2018 is equal to 76.4% of the municipal territory.
Safety
There are no particularly dangerous areas in the territory of Paola. Civil Protection Info 800222211.
14 eGuide
Telefoni utili
Town Hall - Traffic Police
� +39 0982 582 622
� Post office - Viale dei Giardini, 2
� +39 0982 610 577
Emergency medical Service - Via Promintesta
� +39 0982 589 006
� Hospital - Via Promintesta
� +39 0982 5811
� Arrigucci Pharmacy - Via Nazionale, 80
� +39 0982 587 316
� Central Pharmacy - Corso Roma, 1
� +39 0982 582 276
� Novità Pharmacy - Via S. Agata, 30/32
� +39 0982 623 301
� Arturi Pharmacy - Via S. Leonardo, 18
� +39 0982 612 439
� Professional tour guides
� +39 333 105 4532 - Francamaria Giordano
15 eGuide
PEOPLE CULTURES
ENVIRONMENT
16 eGuide Territory and population
The key to reading the city is, without a doubt, its sacredness linked to the name of Francesco. Not only the sanctuary, located upstream and far from the city center, but all the architecture of the ancient part suggests the celebration of Francescocan values.
The view
Values that seem to exalt themselves even in the territory. An essentially mountainous territory that plunges steeply into a blue sea. It is not an unusual landscape in Calabria. But here watching the sea from the pass of the Crocetta or from the cliffs of Palombara, is enchanting. The sunsets are spectacular. The dark mountains, the violet sea, the red sky. One feels part of a heavenly immensity, suspended between earth and sky with the horizon, on clear days, the clear image of the island of Stromboli with its constantly active volcano, but of which no one is afraid. A suggestion difficult to describe that every human being should try. Looking at this magical nature it does not seem strange that Paola is a land of saints, a magical place, a mystical place.
The origins
The urban development of Paola dates back to the eleventh century, but according to some scholars, there are traces of human settlements in the days of the Roman Empire. In fact, the remains of a villa can be found in the district of Cutura. The area is protected by an archaeological bond and investigations and studies
are still underway to evaluate the era. Probably it is a 3rd century BC settlement. at the time when the
17 eGuide
Roman ships were heading towards Carthage and were forced to stop along the coast to get supplies. In Calabria one of the areas chosen for the landing was that of Amantea. The Romans near the landings settled settlers who used the land suitable for the cultivation of grapes, olive trees and land products according to the Roman rules of agriculture. Paola probably came back to these territories. The remains of Cutura, so they could be those of the home of one of these settlers. The city began its development around the year 1100. At that time it was a fief of Fuscaldo. There is no certain information before then. The only evidence is a small Christian church discovered in Sotterra over a century ago. It has not yet been ascertained whether it has early Christian origins. The remains are underneath the church of the Madonna del Carmine which has occasionally arisen on its ruins. The religiousness of the Pauline people spread by the will of Matteo di Tarsia, lord of Fuscaldo who granted the lands of the paulana to the florense abbey of Fonte Laudato, which was based in Fiumefreddo Bruzio. Since then the town assumed an increasing importance with a very high population increase.
The great fervor
Paola experienced a period of great economic fervor around the mid-1400s when port activities in the small harbor intensified. Slowly took the place of Amantea as a center for sorting goods from inland areas, in particular from Cosenza. And it was at that time that Francesco Alessio was born who, very young, decided to lead an eremitical life of prayer and deprivation. He retired to a hermitage just outside the town and there were many of the boys who followed him. Soon the fame of Francesco went beyond Paola who became very well known throughout Calabria and then also in the rest of Italy. Large varieties of productive activities developed, in particular that of silk production. It entered a crisis in the seventeenth century because of feudal taxes and the reduction of commercial traffic caused by pirate raids.
18 eGuide � Life, Culture, Society
The Basilica of San Francesco
THE basilica rises out of the inhabited center and is a fundamental building in the human and urban history of Paola, in its economic and social development. There was no attempt at urban integration in the future, probably for a precise choice of the friars, but above all because the physical places did not allow it. On the other hand, Francesco chose that place because he wanted to be a hermit and therefore, by definition, he chose it to be difficult to achieve. The initial nucleus of the basilica was the cave in which Francesco lived for five long years. He was 14 when he entered and 19 when he interrupted and decided to give his gifts to the world.
19 eGuide
The sanctuary, as seen in the photo of Google Earth, is immersed, at the end of a slope, in the Paolan Apennines. It is composed of various buildings built in different periods, starting from the central nucleus that is the cave in which Francesco retired. It keeps intact the walls of the various eras and the experience of Francesco can be visited easily. Even the visitor who comes close to the visit can not help but notice the mysticism of the places. All well preserved. It was Francesco himself who began the construction of what is now the main shrine that preserves some of the saint's remains, while the General Curia is in Rome. The young hermit created first three small cells for his first-hour followers (Fiorentino, Angelo and Nicola). Later he added a small chapel used for prayer and celebrations, but it was in 1452 that the Saint began the construction of a real church that was dedicated to St. Francesco of Assisi. After the church a convent was built with two corridors of eight cells each, in addition to that of Francesco. There are three bodies: the convent, the sanctuary and the library to which the new sanctuary has recently been added.
Tour
The church consists of two naves, that one central and another on the right with pointed arches which intersect in the vault at the center of the cross and which rest on stone pilasters. The side aisle hosts the relics of the saint that were partly recovered from Tours and saved by the blind fury of the Huguenots.
La Fornace It is located at the beginning of the path that leads to the area of miracles. Two happened here. The first one when Francesco repaired the roof during a fire, unscathed. The second when he brought the little lamb Martinello back to life.
20 eGuide
The unexploded bomb He fell on the sanctuary during a bombing in World War II and did not explode. It was thought that it was the Saint who avoided the destruction of his convent.
La fonte della Cucchiarella La fece sgorgare il Santo per dissetare gli operai che lavoravano alla fornace.
Il ponte del diavolo Quel foro è l'impronta del calcio del diavolo. Il Santo fece un patto con quest'ultimo per aiutarlo a costruire il ponte. Il diavolo accettò, ma in cambio chiese l'anima del primo passante che l'avrebbe percorso. Francesco fece attraversare un cane. Il diavolo si adirò e lanciò un calcio sulla balaustra ed un pugno, di cui sono ancora visibili i segni, sul muro opposto.
21 eGuide
The cave of the young Francesco In this very small cave he retired for about 5 years at the age of 14. Inside, a statue has been placed that makes the idea of how small the cave and the body of the Saint were.
The place of prayer in the hermitage It was built between the narrow tunnels that housed the cells of Francesco and his followers.
The suspended boulder Francesco stopped him while he was falling. It is in contrast to any law of physics. And yet that great stone has stopped and it has been so for 6 centuries.
22 eGuide � Life, Culture, Society
The hermit of the 4 worlds
Francesco di Paola was a hero of the people as were Giovanna d'Arco and Francesco d'Assisi. He was able to bewitch whole crowds and single people. Humble and powerful in front of him felt the same feelings of awe and obedience. Even the king of France, at the time the most powerful man in the world, had much esteem for the hermit Paul and addressed him with great respect and devotion. Louis XII who ascended the throne at the death of Charles VIII, confirmed his esteem and respect to the friar and did not let him leave from Tours to his beloved Calabria as he wanted. And it was at that time (1500) that the Order of Minims, founded by him and recognized by Pope Alexander VI on 26 February 1493, opened new convents throughout Europe and, later, throughout the world.
23 eGuide
San Francesco di Paola is one of the most revered saints, certainly the best known Italian saint in the entire planet. The map shows the diffusion of the Order of Minims in 4 continents (Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas). In Italy the Order of Minims is present in Lazio, Campania, Puglia, Calabria, Sicily, Sardinia, Emilia Romagna and Liguria.
The saint in the world
Minim Fathers Deiva Matha Seminary Iritty India P.O. Pattaram Kannur
Ordre des Minimes Maison de Formation Congo Saint François de Paule - Mokala
Yaounde Ordre des Peres Minimes au Cameroun Cameroun Noviciat Saint Francois de Paule de Yaounde s/c Maison vice provinciale - Elounou
Padres Minimos Convento San Francisco de Colombia Paula Santa Fè de Bogotà
Convento Virgen del Milagro Noviciado - Medellin
All Saints Catholic Church3431 Portola Usa Avenue Los Angeles
Padres Minimos - Caixa Postal Brasile 6075605786-990 Sao Paulo
Parrocchia S. Francisco de Paula Barra de Tijuca - Rio De Janeiro
Padres Minimos - Caixa Postal 6485100 Guarapuava
MÍNIMOS de S. Francisco de Paula Messico Convento Nuestra Señora de la Soledad Guerrero Sur 563 -Zona Centro A.P. 56225000 Saltillo, Coahuila
Parroquia de San Francisco de Paula, C/. Spagna Ruidera, 9 28018 Madrid
PP Minimos Carrer de l'oblit, 22 08041 Barcelona
Comunidad Frailes Minimos, C/Arroyo, 78 41008 Sevilla
Convento Padri Minimi, 66432 Vranov u. Rep. Ceca Brna
24 eGuide
Paintings and statues of the Saint
Saint Francis of Paola. Statue in Bormes-les-Mimosas, France
Franziskus von Paola (autore sconosciuto)
Francesco Cappella, Miracolo di San Francesco da Paola, Olio su tela, 250 x 180 cm
Il volto di San Francesco. Acquerello su carta di Giacomo Vercillo
Chiesa di San Rocco Venezia. "San Francesco di Paola che risana un fanciullo" di Sebastiano Ricci (1733); oil on canvas; Height: 400 cm (13.1 ft); Width: 167 cm (65.7 in)
25 eGuide
Curious, humble and unselfish
St. Francesco was a special person, of great intelligence and great humility. He did not boast of what he was, what he knew how to do, what he knew. Indeed, on the contrary, he self-despised himself. He called himself an illiterate, a villain and a rustic. In reality it was the exact opposite. We know, for example, that he could draw how to build a building. Paola's shrine drew him with the cane he always carried with him. At the court of the king of France he held head not only to the royal plenipotentiaries, but even to the sovereign himself and to the queen. He knew well the rules of diplomacy and civil coexistence. It was always clean and fragrant (which was not entirely obvious in those days) and managed to convince others to fulfill their desires and to follow his teachings. He was a curious person. When he arrived with his parents in Assisi to grant a vote, Francesco wanted to understand why St. Francesco chose to live in poverty and in solitude. Because that man who had earthly riches, chose the solitude of a hermitage. We do not know what answers he had to his questions, but we know that he chose the same path as the Saint of Assisi. As he retired and like him, something completely new to a hermit, he agreed to meet other people. He gave them comfort and received comfort from them. It was a mutual flow. These gifts brought him to France, when the king called him and his successor held him back in Tours. The greatness of Francesco di Paola was clear to everyone. The Order of Minims, recognized in 1493, began to expand in France and throughout Europe also helped by the benevolence of the French crown. Francesco was compassionate and succeeded in instilling the values of welcome, poverty, equality among people in a world that lived on charges of abuse, immense wealth for very few, privileges and that oppressed the poor. The ecclesiastical circles were afraid that the Francesco can sentiments would spread and that this could damage the riches and privileges they enjoyed. Nevertheless the Order of Minims spread all over the world. The miracles of Francesco, his way of life, the love for the environment that surrounded him, the love for all the creatures of the world can be touched by hand in the visit of the Sanctuary.
26 eGuide � Life, Culture, Society
The Tower of the castle
THE ORIGIN of the castle is uncertain. Architecturally it has Norman features and Swabian features. Certainly it was enlarged, embellished and fortified by the Spinelli family in the XVI century. The barons, owners of the entire city, also made it their main residence. It rises in via Salita Castello in a dominant position with a cylindrical tower built, like a little 'in all coastal Tyrrhenian centers, because of pirate raids. The Spinelli barons also extended the city walls, fortifying it considerably. The scourge of raids was fought by a new military order called "Holy Military Maritime Order of the Knights of St. Stephen". It was created in Tuscany with the aim of countering pirates (Turks especially at that time) who, under the orders of the pirate Barbarossa, raided the whole Tyrrhenian area stealing everything they could and raping the Calabrian women. In the waters of Paola there was a great victory of the new order by the ships commanded by Thomas Medici who in 1586 captured one of the most ferocious pirates, Simain Rais, famous and feared because it caused ruins, and captured men and women reducing them into slavery.
27 eGuide The Roman villa of Cutura
In the photo the place subject to archaeological constraint, but completely abandoned and without any reference or information. The researcher of the Paolab association, after having made his way through the scrubland, arrives at the wall and shows one of the niches in the Roman wall. In 1993 occasional remains of artefacts were discovered that the archaeologists of the Calabria Superintendency classified as belonging to a Roman villa probably dating back to the III century BC. Mosaics of floors, decorated walls, tiles, a furnace for the production of amphorae were unearthed. The excavations continued until 2003 with important discoveries such as amphorae, Roman tombs, human skeletons, fragments of painted plaster. Research and studies were unfortunately abandoned due to lack of funds. The artifact may have been the beginning of the Roman settlement. The villa is located on a terrace facing the sea with a remarkable panoramic position about 1 kilometer as the crow flies to a height of about 60 meters above sea level. The building was perfectly adapted to the ground below and was built with the use of local stone blocks. In the wall, every 4 meters, there were semicircular niches of about 1 meter that probably housed statues or sculptures of which there is no trace left.
28 eGuide The church of Sotterra
In Sotterra there is a gem left by the Byzantines. Byzantine colonization developed for small nucleos from Puglia to Sicily. On the Tyrrhenian coast and on the Ionian Calabrian there are two extraordinary pictorial complexes. One is located in the church of Stilo (the Catholic), the other is in the church of Sotterra. The characteristic of these frescoes are the superimposed layers. According to scholars they could correspond to as many consecrations, after periods of abandonment. In addition to the fresco visible in the photo (it could be dated between the seventh and eighth centuries), the church preserves another in a poor state of preservation depicting the Annunciation. The latter dates back to the XIV-XV century. Scholars have not been able to establish the exact date of construction of the building until now. It was discovered by chance during the construction of the church of Santa Maria del Carmelo. It was built above the church which is accessed from inside the church itself. It seems certain that the church was built at ground level and it is not clear why it is now under the ground. The phenomenon is charged by many scholars to landslides or flooding of nearby torrents. The small church, thanks to a project to recover the artistic heritage by the Rotary Club of Paola, can be visited, but its cultural and artistic importance deserves further work.
29 eGuide The church of San Michele
The Byzantine church of San Michele dates back to the ninth century. It is located near the one of Sotterra in the San Miceli district. According to historians, it may have been built after the one in Sotterra was overwhelmed by a landslide, replacing its functions. The Byzantines in the same period built other churches in the surroundings.
The birthplace of Francesco
The house where Francesco was born Friday, March 27th, 1416 by Giacomo D'Alessio and Vienna di Fuscaldo. That day, it is said, the Paulines heard coming from that house arcane melodies and saw mysterious flames
The Saint's birthplace has been transformed into a church. It is located in the historic center a few steps from the church of Montevergine in via Salita Giacomo Alessio. The interior of the church is illuminated by glazed windows. The main altar is adorned with a mosaic and the vault with frescoes.
30 eGuide The churches of Paola
Montevergine
It is located in the central Piazza del Popolo. The façade is unmistakably of Baroque style. It was built in the mid-sixteenth century at the behest of Spinelli barons and designed by Neapolitan architect Niccolò Ricciulli.
S. S. Rosario
The interior of the church of S.S. Rosario located on Corso Garibaldi. It consists of a single nave with a barrel vault. There are 15th century frescoes. Its edification should therefore be precedent.
31 eGuide
San Giacomo
It stands on Corso Garibaldi. It is dated in the XV century and is in clear Gothic style. Over the centuries the church has undergone various building interventions, but it is still a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture. An artistic treasure to visit.
The Duomo
It is entitled to the S.S. Annunziata. It is an archpriest church and has considerable artistic importance. There are no definite references to the date of construction even if it is a late Gothic architecture that contains paintings referable to the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. They have been detected by scientists unmistakable Norman-Swabian references. It is made mostly of tufa stone with three naves. It is in the central area, in via Duomo.
32 eGuide � Walking
The Way of San Francesco
PAOLA is the arrival point of the "Cammino di San Francesco" organized by the association "La casa del Km Zero". Among enchanted woods, ancient villages, dreamy views. A fascinating journey in the footsteps of the Calabrian hermit, crossing the places that framed his life. The hiking route, 112 km in 6 stages, traveled can also be in Sanctuary of part, walking on Paola or the "Via del “Via of the Giovane" (49 km, Hermit "(63 km, 3 stages) from 3 stages) from San Marco the Shrine of Argentano to the Paola to that Paterno Calabro. Anyone wishing to experience this experience in nature by participating in a guided Walk can contact Alexander (328 657 2943), Vincenzo (329 541 8818) or Riccardo (340 851 3264). To walk the Camino independently, all the info on www.ilcamminodisanfrancesco.it The itinerary is included in the "Cammini d'Italia" Atlas of the Ministry for Cultural Assets and Activities (MiBAC).
33 eGuide
Santa Maria di Valle Josaphat
NEAR Deuda, five kilometers south of the center of Paola, in the Badia district, stands the Monastery of Santa Maria di Valle Josaphat. The solemn building was built by the Normans and entrusted to the Benedictine friars. It is said that in 1190 Richard the Lionheart stayed there to rest during the journey to the Holy Land. The name of the monastery refers to the sacred texts. In particular, the Valley of Josaphat was named by Joel (III 2-12) in which, according to a widespread tradition, the judgment of all peoples will be held at the end of the world. The Valley is located in the eastern part of Jerusalem, between the city walls and Mount Oliveto; since the IV century it has been identified as a part of the Cedron valley. The monastery, the Pauline one, is instead the starting point for a fantastic walk. Along with the hikers of the Paolan Apennines, you will walk along ancient paths today, as before, with eucalyptus trees, ash trees, cypresses, as well as majestic, centuries-old pine trees with a wide umbrella-like crown. The route reaches its peak of altitude in the Varco le Chianche area (about 800 m). It is a mysterious place historically frequented by bandits and evildoers. The route is about 9 km long and the walk takes about 5 hours. For information call Alessandro (328 657 2943), Vincenzo (329 541 8818) or Riccardo (340 851 3264).
34 eGuide
� Nature and Sport
‘A Palummara
The old state road (now SP 35) that connects Paola to Cosenza is spectacular above all in the area of hairpin bends. There are 5 consecutive elbow bends necessary to make the steep climb that leads to the summit of the Crocetta sweeter. The road then goes down a little more gently towards Cosenza. It is a place made for those who love majestic landscapes and a sunset out of the ordinary. Stopping on the parapet of the road for a photo or, simply, to admire a show of unusual nature, provokes a profound suggestion. The Paolan Apennines in that area have little vegetation, only bushes and grass grow. This allows a view of great beauty. For those, however, who wish to advance, towards the summit can find a thick vegetation of trees and sources of really good fresh water. It is also a great place to find mushrooms in the right periods (May-June and September-October). The people of Cosenza in the past (let's say 40 years ago) used it not only to come and go to Paola, but also to organize outdoor picnics thanks to large open spaces that are located right next to the road. It was the triumph of good wine, of great suppressed and of an exquisite taste. Difficult, but not impossible, to find some brave who still do it.
35 eGuide � Events The tribute of the sailors of Italy
FRANCESCO is the protector of sailors. All over the Christian world is celebrated to protect seafarers. It owes this proclamation to the fact that it crossed the Strait of Messina with its mantle as seen in the drawing above. The friar had asked a ferryman to give him a free passage from Catona to Messina. The owner of the boat twice refused: "Pay me and I will ferry you" he replied to Francesco's petitions. It was at this point that the friar spread his cloak, made a sign of the cross with his eyes to heaven, he mounted on it and the waves and the wind put it on the Sicilian side. Francesco was able to dominate Nature. In fact, it was not the first time. He stopped a boulder that was about to fall on the workers' head, made the water flow to quench the workers. He healed the sick. In Paola the celebrations take place on April 2nd and May 1-2-3-4 each year. They are divided into liturgical celebrations and civil demonstrations. The program is available from time to time on the website of the municipal administration or the Sanctuary. For information call the number +39 0982 582 518.
36 eGuide
Salita Castello A Via G. Alessio F
P. del Popolo E-G C.so Garibaldi E-G
Via4 Maggio F P. 4 Novembre G-H
Via Nazionale G-H Via Cancello A-B
Vic. Normanni C Via Valitutti F
A B
D C
F E
G H
37 eGuide
� Calabria Vigorosa eGuide
Paola, Mystical places and magical atmospheres
This guide was commissioned by the Municipality of Paola and realized by Calabria Vigorosa, beneficiary of a grant of the Por Calabria 2007-2013. It is distributed free of charge in its electronic form (epub and pdf). We submit a questionnaire to help us improve it and for statistical purposes as well. The information will be treated anonymously in full compliance with current regulations on data protection and privacy (Legislative Decree No. 196/2003).
Was this guide useful for you?
Very Little Enough
What did you like about the guide?
Cultural, historical and architectural contents 1 2 3
Environmental content-uses and customs 1 2 3
Enogastronomic and craft contents 1 2 3
Practical information-useful addresses 1 2 3
Sports-wellness contents 1 2 3
� Mail to Mayor
� Mail to Calabria Vigorosa
DOWNLOAD CALABRIA VIGOROSA GUIDES
38