Crotone
Crotone, the city of the three millennia, that bears the evident signs of different eras and cultures, and brings together traditions, tastes, flavours and contaminations from all over the Mediterranean.
Crotone the City Of Three Millennia, A Treasure Trove Yet To Be Discovered
Crotone, the city of the three millennia, is the main port of the Ionian Sea in Calabria, located in the centre of the eastern coast of Calabria, and stretches along the sea line with an ideal connection between its historic centre and the Capo Colonna promontory, home to the archaeological park and museum of the same name.
The historic city centre embraces the port, creating a unique whole.
A city that bears the evident signs of different eras and cultures, and brings together traditions, tastes, flavours and contaminations from all over the Mediterranean.
The Capital of Magna Graecia
Founded in 718 B.C., it soon became the capital of Magna Graecia, extending its dominion from Sibari to Locri, even reaching the Tyrrhenian coast at present-day Lamezia Terme. Its majesty is fully represented in the finds contained in the city’s two archaeological museums, one located in the old town and the other in Capo Colonna.
The Magic of Capo Colonna
Enriching the town is the Lacinio promontory. Capo Colonna is a veritable treasure chest of riches, many of which are still hidden. Signs of the Magna Graecia and Roman presence make this strip of land in the middle of the sea even more magical, with the only column still standing of the temple of Hera Lacinia and the remains of the walls of the Pythagorean school telling a story of unique charm.
The Historic Centre a combination Of Different Eras And Histories
The historic centre of the city developed around the Aragonese Military Fortress(the largest in southern Italy), built in AD 840 to defend against Saeacen raids.The alleys that criss-cross it connect the ancient noble palaces and splendid places of worship such as the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Santa Chiara amd San Giuseppe. Noteworthy is also the Cathederal, dedicated to San Dionigi, inside which you can admire the Chapel of The Madonna of Capo Colonna, with its sacred effigy with its peculiar dark colouring, for which it has been given the name ‘Madonne Nera’.
Among the ancient medieval arcade stands the characteristic market, located close to the ancient vice-regal walls, which offers a spectacle of colours and scents, thanks to the presence of seasonal fruit and vegetables that, together with typical products, make it a picturesque place that should not be missed.
A poor Cuisine With Strong Flavours
In addition to its historical and architectural beauty, Crotone is also known for its gastronomy, with strong and decisive flavours that stem from a ‘poor’ cuisine based on local products, especially from the land, without neglecting fresh fish, which arrives early in the morning at the port. The many restaurants in the old town and on the waterfront offer a unique culinary experience.
