Amantea: Historic Centre, Sea and Culture

Amantea Above and Below the Water’s Surface

For planning your trip, Amantea can be viewed from two perspectives: the historic centre provides access to architecture and religious art, while the marine area offers a distinct focus for underwater interests. The Fondali Scogli di Isca marine area is considered an interesting location for underwater photography. Off Amantea, the Villaggio dei saraghi on the seabed consists of three submerged rocks at depths of 16 to 22 metres. Those interested in underwater photography will therefore find a specific thematic starting point for exploring the maritime side of the town.

Historic Centre and Notable Works of Art

Amantea’s historic centre can be reached via the steep incline of Via Cavour, marked by an archway between the old houses. The historic centre includes the art-historically significant portals of the 17th-century Palazzo Mirabelli. The Chiesa e Convento di San Bernardino da Siena in Amantea houses the marble statue Madonna col Bambino, created by Antonello Gagini in 1505. If you are particularly interested in architecture and sacred art, this area offers several specific points of interest. You should take the incline of Via Cavour into account when finding your way around locally.

Churches, Processions and Preserved Traces

Construction work on the Chiesa Matrice in Amantea was completed in 1688 with financial support from local worshippers. On Good Friday morning, the church is the starting and finishing point of the Processione delle Varette in Amantea. In the Catocastro district, the Chiesa del Collegio belongs to a 17th-century Jesuit college. The adjoining Sant’Elia church is designed in the Baroque style and has a richly carved suspended wooden pulpit. The preserved remains of the Ruderi-Convento di S. Francesco d’Assisi in Amantea include a 13th-century church; today, the Ruderi-Convento are a historical and tourist attraction. Nativity and Passion scenes are displayed in the Chiesa del Carmine at Christmas and Easter. Amantea therefore offers several different historical points of reference: architectural history, the history of religious orders, sacred furnishings and religiously themed dates stand side by side, without requiring you to focus on a single type of visit.

Cave Park, Coreca and a Calabrian Speciality

Below Amantea, Cave Park formerly served as a shelter and mooring place for boats and ships. In summer, Cave Park hosts film screenings as part of the La Guarimba International Film Festival. In the Coreca district of Amantea, the remains of an ancient cylindrical watchtower dating from the 16th century stand above the cliff descending towards the sea. A culinary addition is the Fico Dottato di Cosenza PDO: it is considered a Calabrian confectionery speciality and is recommended for tasting in Amantea. The thematic range thus extends from maritime history and summer film culture to a regional taste experience.

Getting There and Choosing Accommodation

Amantea can be reached by train via the local railway station. When choosing a hotel or other accommodation in Amantea, you can first organise your personal priorities: Are you mainly interested in the historic centre, churches and art, the maritime perspective or seasonal cultural events? This allows you to choose accommodation according to your own travel interests.

More Destinations for Your Planning

More places for planning your trip: Celico, Grisolia, Mormanno, Solfara Mare, Tessano, Mandatoriccio, Cittadella Del Capo and Cosenza.

To the overarching travel overview: Cosenza.