Description

Visit of the historic center of Cariati, an ancient well-preserved medieval village. Visit to the historical centre of Cariati, a well-preserved ancient medieval town, surrounded by fortification walls interspersed with eight massive towers.

The bridge located at the beginning of the old town, replaces the old drawbridge that once marked the entrance of the town and from here began the walls.

During the visit stop at the balcony of the Spezieria, which takes its name from the nearby tower, which is accessed via a staircase called “u lavinar ir a vadd”. From here you can enjoy a wonderful view of the Ionian Sea and the marina of the town.

Visit the imposing Cathedral dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel, a beautiful example of neoclassical church with a seventeenth-century bell tower. Continuing along the main street, Via XX Settembre, you will see the Bishop’s Palace, whose construction was begun by Bishop Gonzaga in 1649 and was completed by Bishop Barzellino between 1664 and 1688.

On the same course there are small churches of the same period and the palace of the Seminary, wanted by the bishop Gonzaga and built in the first half of the 17th century. This palace, which is situated on one of the 8 towers, has the coat of arms of the Mantuan family on its main façade.

Crossing Porta Pia, you exit the historic center of Cariati and the city walls.

A few steps away is the church of the Minor Observants or Santa Filomena, dating from the fifteenth century, in late Gothic style. The church was part of the complex belonging to the Franciscan friars of the order of the Minor Observants.

Before leaving Cariati, stop at the Antica Gelateria to taste the award-winning homemade ice cream for 30 years.

At the end of the visit we will continue with a tasting in the cellars of Cirò, where you can discover the many wines of this territory accompanied by a platter of cold cuts and cheeses.