Our journey through Sicily was coming to an end as we set off from Palermo, making our way to the ferry in Messina, destination Cosenza, Calabria. The drive from Palermo was roughly two and a half hours so we left 4 hours ahead of the time we were supposed to be there, just to account for any spontaneous sights we might wish to see, and to ensure we found the terminal in a timely manner. Finding the right terminal was a bit confusing so we were lucky that we had left ourselves some extra time. Soon we were aboard, crossing the Strait of Messina to Villa San Giovanni on the mainland. The ferry ride is an easy 20 minutes and I recommend booking your tickets ahead of time. Our next stop? The lesser-explored region of Calabria.
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Calabria sits at the very toe of Italy’s boot, squeezed between the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas. While it’s one of the country’s most southern regions, it’s also one of the least visited by international travelers. We were eager to explore, and our destination was Cosenza, often referred to as the “Athens of Italy.”
Cosenza is a fascinating mix of old and new. The historic center, perched on Pancrazio Hill, is a maze of medieval streets, grand churches, and noble palaces. The more modern city sprawls below, home to lively cultural spaces, including the University of Calabria and the Bilotti Open-Air Museum. Though we only had one night in this beautiful city, the warmth of the locals and the rich history left us wanting more.
With more time, we would have explored all of Cosenza’s treasures, but even in a short visit, we managed to take in some highlights:
- Cosenza Cathedral (Duomo): An 11th-century masterpiece standing proudly in the heart of the old town.
- Museum of Brettii and Enotri: A fascinating archaeological museum housed in a former monastery.
- Monument of Telesio: Honoring Bernardino Telesio, a key figure in Cosenza’s intellectual past.
- Piazza XV Marzo: A picturesque square surrounded by elegant 18th-century buildings.
- Hohenstaufen Castle: A medieval fortress with breathtaking views over the city.
- Rendano Theatre: One of Calabria’s most important cultural hubs.
- Ponte di Calatrava: A sleek modern bridge that’s part of Cosenza’s open-air art museum.
We stayed at the Italiana Hotel Cosenza, located about ten minutes from the historic district in the city’s modern area. The staff was incredibly welcoming and attentive, making our stay even more enjoyable. Our room was spacious and well-equipped with modern amenities, and we started the morning with a delicious intercontinental breakfast.
While our visit was short, Cosenza made a strong impression. With its blend of history, culture, and welcoming locals, it’s the kind of place that deserves more time to truly appreciate. Calabria may not be on every traveler’s radar, but after this brief stop, we can say with certainty—it should be.
