Located in the heart of Calabria, Acri is a pearl set between hilly landscapes and a rich history that you breathe at every corner of its streets. This fascinating municipality is a real treasure for those who want to immerse themselves in an authentic and genuine atmosphere, far from the most beaten tourist routes. Its traditional architecture, with stone houses and narrow alleys, tells centuries of history and culture, offering a picturesque scenario that invites slow and contemplative walks. Acri is also famous for its food and wine traditions, with typical dishes such as the "pitta" and the tasty extra virgin olive oil, which represent the heart of its culinary identity. Visitors can discover the suggestive panoramas with numerous natural points of view, enjoying breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains, which change color at sunset, creating a magical atmosphere. The historic center houses ancient churches and lively squares, where events and parties take place that strengthen the sense of community and tradition. Acri is also an ideal starting point for exploring the wonders of internal Calabria, between woods, paths and archaeological areas, offering an authentic and engaging experience to those who want to discover the true spirit of this region. Here, the warmth of the people and the beauty of the landscape come together to create an unforgettable experience, made of emotions and discovery.
historic center with baroque churches and historic squares
The historic center of Acri is a real casket of architectural and cultural treasures, characterized by a fascinating intertwining of baroque churches and historical squares that tell centuries of history and tradition. Walking through the streets of the village, you have the opportunity to admire _ the Church of Santa Maria del Buon Consiglio_, a splendid example of Baroque architecture, with her decorated facade and the interiors full of sacred works of art. A short distance away, there is The Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, another religious reference point that preserves frescoes and furnishings of great historical value. The squares of the historic center, such as Piazza Town Hall, are places of meeting and socialization, with coffee and typical places that invite visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic atmosphere of the place. These areas are often animated by cultural events and traditional manifestations, which strengthen the sense of community and preserve the historical roots of the village. The historic center of Acri also stands out for its narrow and cottled streets, which invite a slow and contemplative walk, allowing you to discover hidden corners and artistic details of great charm. The combination of majestic baroque churches, historical squares and the authentic atmosphere make the center of Acri an unmissable stop for those who want to immerse themselves in the history, art and spirituality of this fascinating Calabrian location.
Norman-Swabian castle and archaeological museums
The ** Pollino National Park ** represents one of the most suggestive natural jewels in southern Italy, offering a breathtaking view that fascinates visitors of all origins. Extended between the regions of Calabria and Basilicata, the park stands out for its unique biodiversity, hosting rare species of flora and fauna that find refuge between its peaks, the forests of loricati pines and the large pastures. Among its main attractions, the Pollino mountain range stands out, with its highest point, the ** Monte Pollino **, which reaches 2,248 meters and offers panoramic views that extend to the Gulf of Taranto and the Apennines. The suggestive valle del Raganello and the lago di Monte Cotugno are just some of the wonders that embellish the landscape, offering ideas for excursions, trekking and outdoor activities. The park is also a place of great cultural value, with ancient traditions rooted between local communities and numerous cave settlements and churches of historical interest. Its privileged position allows you to enjoy a panorama that unites montagne imposing, boschi luxuriant and SPazi open, creating an ideal environment for sustainable tourism and eco-tourism. Visiting the Pollino Park means immersing yourself in an authentic and uncontaminated landscape, where nature and culture merge into a unique and memorable experience.
Cultural events and traditional annual festivals
Acri, a city full of traditions and history, stands out Also for its cultural and traditional annual festivals_ that attract visitors from all sides. During the year, the local calendar comes alive with events that celebrate the deep roots of the community, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in authentic Calabrian culture. Among the most renowned festivals there is certainly the one dedicated to the sagra della Cipolla, an event that shows off the typical products of the area, accompanied by tastings, live music and folkloric shows. Another highly anticipated event is the Festa di San Domenico, patron of Acri, during which religious processions, cultural events and fireworks take place, creating an atmosphere of great collective participation. The _ countrysa_ are also an opportunity to rediscover local culinary traditions, with food stands that offer typical dishes such as' nduja, homemade bread and traditional desserts, thus enhancing gastronomy as an identity element. Furthermore, during the year, cultural heritage such as concerts, art exhibitions and theatrical performances are held, which enrich the cultural panorama of the city and attract fans and tourists interested in discovering the peculiarities of Acri. These initiatives not only favor the local economy, but also strengthen the sense of community and pride for traditions, making acri an ideal destination for those who want to live an authentic and engaging experience in the heart of Calabria.
Panorama on the Pollino National Park
Located in the heart of Calabria, Acri boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage that manifests itself in places of great charm such as the Norman-Swabian castello. This imposing structure, which dominates the historic center, represents one of the most significant symbols of the city and an extraordinary example of medieval architecture. Built in the twelfth century, the castle has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries, reflecting the different dominations that followed in the region. Its grandeur is highlighted in the robust walls, in the towers and in the internal courtyards, offering visitors an immersion in the past and a panoramic view of the surrounding valley. In addition to the castle, Acri houses important archaeological Musei which enrich the cultural offer of the city. These museums, often hosted in historic buildings, retain finds that testify to the presence of ancient civilizations, from prehistory to classical era, passing through the Roman and medieval period. Among the most significant pieces there are ceramics, stone tools, ancient coins and fragments of rock art, which allow visitors to get to know the historical roots of this area more deeply. The visit to the Castello Norman-Svevo and to the archaeological _musei of Acri represents a journey through time, a unique opportunity to discover the origins of Calabria and appreciate the value of its cultural heritage, making the city a unmissable stop for fans of history and archeology.
food and wine traditions and local products
Acri stands out not only for its historical and landscape heritage, but also for its food and wine traditions and local products that represent a real cultural heritage to be discovered. Acritana cuisine is the result of a mix of Mediterranean and Calabrian influences, with dishes that tell the story and resources of this land. Among the most famous specialties stand out the fresco_, like the lagane and Cavatelli, prepared according to ancient recipes handed down from generation to generation, often accompanied by rich and tasty sauces based on tomato, garlic and olives. The use of olive extra virgin olive_ of high quality, produced locally and used in many preparations cannot be missing. Among the typical products, there are also Formaggi, like Pecorino and RICOTTA, which are accompanied perfectly with honey di acacia and the _Confectures of local fruit. The production of vino is another excellence of acri, thanks to vineyards that extend on the surrounding hills, offering wines with a robust and aromatic taste, ideal for accompanying traditional dishes. The Festte and sagre dedicated to food products, such as the sagra della Castagna or that of the Miele, represent important occasions to savor the local specialties and know the gastronomic traditions of the community. Visit acri It means immersing yourself in a world of authentic flavors, where each product tells the story of a territory full of passion and a culinary culture rooted over time.
