Aieta, the “eagle” village of the Calabrian mountains

Aieta, a fascinating Calabrian village, owes its name to a toponym of Greek origin, probably derived from aetòs (“eagle”), in reference to its dominant position on the mountain slopes. Its history is very ancient: between the 6th and 3rd centuries BC, the Oenotrian settlement of Aieta Vetere controlled the valley from Mount Calimaro. In Roman times it was part of the Lucanian city of Blanda Julia, while in later centuries it preserved traces of early Christianity and the presence of Basilian monks. Saracen raids between the 9th and 10th centuries forced the population to retreat inland, giving rise to the current village. Over the centuries, Aieta was shaped by feudal dominations, peasant struggles, agricultural activities, and migratory movements that forged its identity.

What to see in the village 

Aieta has medieval origins and still preserves the charm of a village that tells centuries of history. Its narrow, sloping streets recall the period around the year 1000, when the inhabitants of Blanda Julia took refuge here to escape Saracen incursions. The historic center, dominated by white façades and red roofs, gathers around its most illustrious building: Palazzo Martirano, built in the 16th century, expanded by the Cosentino marquises, and later passed to the Spinelli family. With its U-shaped plan, Renaissance loggia, and recently restored frescoes, it is one of the rare examples of Renaissance civil architecture in Calabria.

Among the religious buildings, the Mother Church of Santa Maria della Visitazione stands out, built in the 16th century on a Norman foundation. The three-nave interior preserves a rich artistic heritage: from the wooden crucifix to the Byzantine icon of the Mother of Consolation, as well as paintings by Dick Hendricksz and Fabrizio Santafede. Also noteworthy are the Bossi-Prezioso organ (1673) and numerous finely carved stone portals from the 18th and 19th centuries.

The village also preserves the Church of San Francesco, the Chapel of San Vito with the statue of the patron saint, other minor chapels, and the evocative remains of water mills, testimony to its long and lively tradition.

Events in Aieta 

Throughout the year, Aieta hosts events that combine culture, tradition, and gastronomy. In August, the village welcomes “L’Europa del Capitale Umano”, international meetings held in the Renaissance palace by the Associazione Rinascimento. Also in August, the Prosciutto Festival of Aieta (August 12) attracts many visitors with tastings of local specialties, while the Mediterranean Book Fair brings writers and readers from diverse cultural backgrounds. With the arrival of autumn, September is dedicated to the Sagra Montanara, a market exhibition that highlights mountain products and ancient culinary traditions.

What to see around Aieta 

The surroundings of Aieta offer itineraries of great charm, blending nature, sea, and culture. Just a few kilometers away are the splendid beaches of Praia a Mare, with Dino Island and its sea caves. Inland stretches the Pollino National Park, ideal for excursions among centuries-old forests and mountain panoramas. Also worth visiting are the historic villages of Tortora and Scalea, rich in archaeological and medieval heritage. Rock churches, Basilian monasteries, and nature trails connecting the Tyrrhenian coast to the mountains complete an itinerary of authentic and evocative landscapes.

photo credits Simone Padovani