Altomonte, the medieval village among the Calabrian hills

The village of Altomonte, nestled among the hills of Calabria, preserves an ancient history. Its earliest name was Balbia, a Phoenician term derived from Baal, meaning “lord” and “divinity,” already mentioned by Pliny the Elder for its fine wines. In 1065 it appeared as Brahalla, perhaps from the Arabic “blessing of God,” then became Altoflumen in 1337, and finally, between 1343 and 1345, assumed its current name by order of Queen Joanna I. The remains of a Roman villa near the Esaro River attest to settlement as early as the 1st century AD. Its medieval development, guided by Filippo Sangineto and later by the Sanseverino family, made Altomonte a center of art, culture, and spirituality, also frequented by the philosopher Tommaso Campanella.

What to see in the village 

Altomonte still preserves the authentic atmosphere of its alleys and ancient stones. Amid the scents of traditional cuisine and picturesque views, the heart of the town is the Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione, the finest example of Angevin Gothic in Calabria, commissioned by Filippo Sangineto in 1342. The church dominates the Esaro Valley and is distinguished by its sculpted portal, arched rose window, and bell tower, while the single-nave interior impresses with its sobriety and harmony. Of great value are the Sangineto Sepulcher (1360) and the funerary monument of an unknown knight. Next to it stands the Dominican Convent, with its 15th-century cloister, today home to the Civic Museum and linked to the stay of Tommaso Campanella.

The itinerary through the village includes the 12th-century Norman castle, now transformed into a hotel, and historic residences such as Palazzo Pancaro and the Pallotta tower-house. In Piazza Balbia, the ancient seat of assemblies, stands the Church of San Giacomo Apostolo, of Byzantine origin but with Baroque interiors. Continuing on, one reaches Piazza San Francesco di Paola with the monastic complex, now the town hall, and its 18th-century cloister. The visit concludes at Palazzo Giacobini (1584), once a hospital for pilgrims, today a venue for events and conferences.

Events in Altomonte 

Altomonte is animated year-round by traditions and festivals. The Epiphany Night opens with the reenactment of the Magi, followed by the Fucine of Saint Joseph and Saint Francis of Paola, with bonfires and tastings. The Good Friday Way of the Cross and the patronal feast celebrate devotion, while Corpus Domini features the traditional flower carpets. In May, the village hosts the School Theater Festival and the Great Bread Festival; in June, the Dance Festival; in July, the Rock Festival and the renowned Euromediterranean Festival. Autumn brings Fiabe nel Borgo, Di… Vino Jazz, and the delicious Mushroom Festival.

Exploring the surroundings 

The area around Altomonte combines nature, art, and tradition. The Esaro Valley offers evocative landscapes, ideal for excursions among olive groves, vineyards, and woods. A short distance away lie the Pollino mountains, the heart of the National Park, with trails, perched villages, and ancient monasteries. Toward the coast, the Ionian Sea offers beaches and crystal-clear waters. The surrounding small towns preserve medieval churches, noble palaces, and Byzantine remains. Typical products—wine, oil, bread, and mushrooms—enrich the experience, making this territory a fascinating mosaic of culture, nature, and gastronomy to enjoy in every season.

cover photo credits: marcobriviophoto.com / Shutterstock.com