Bonifati: Fortresses, Churches and Quiet Paths Through History

Bonifati reveals itself through its historic buildings, religious sites and a walk through the historic centre. The most important sight in the historic centre is the route leading to “Il Forte”, a complex consisting of the ruins of a Norman castle dating from around the 13th century. A walk through Bonifati’s historic centre conveys the impression of a timeless setting. For planning your trip, this creates a place where different traces of history can be brought together without having to focus on a single theme.

Fortifications and Towers

Bonifati Castle is known as “Il Forte” and was reinforced by the Normans to defend the area. The original structure comprised five towers and a central building. The Torre di Fella offers another glimpse into the medieval past: it is a tower from the Norman period between 1112 and 1154, during the time of Roger II, and was reinforced in the 16th century. The Torre di Fella is free of charge and freely accessible, but difficult to access for people with motor disabilities. This specific limitation is part of realistic planning if you would like to include the tower in your itinerary.

The Torre di Parise provides a different accent. It dates from the 16th century, has a square shape and is located in the station area, a few metres from the beach. Bonifati features various historic architectural forms, including the castle complex associated with “Il Forte”, the Norman Torre di Fella and the later square Torre di Parise.

Churches and Sacred Art

The churches also preserve distinctive details. The Santuario Madonna Santissima del Rosario was formerly part of the Dominican monastery complex. Inside, there is an 18th-century statue of the Madonna del Rosario. The Chiesa del Calvario was built in the 17th century. It houses the painting “Jesus Carrying the Cross Between Saints Peter and Paul”, painted by Dirk Hendricksz in 1601.

The Chiesa della SS. Annunziata also dates from the 17th century, is designed in the Baroque style and is divided into three sections. Inside are a 16th-century sculptural group depicting the Annunciation by an unknown artist, as well as an 18th-century wooden choir. Those interested in architecture, sacred spaces and works of art with a clearly identifiable date find several different points of interest here.

Flavours and Local Tradition

The local experience also includes the “Profumi di Cedro” visit at Villa Cirimarco. It includes a tasting of bread and oil, house salad, cheese with preserves made on the farm and a glass of wine. The restaurant at Villa Cirimarco is also open to outside guests and operates by reservation only.

The celebration in honour of the saint is currently held on the third Sunday in August. Together with the churches, towers and historic paths, this creates a multifaceted picture of Bonifati: history is revealed in the remains of fortifications and architectural forms, art in the sacred interiors, and local culture in a tasting featuring bread, oil, cheese, preserves and wine.

More Destinations

More destinations: Marina Di Mandatoriccio, Grisolia, Frascineto, Praia A Mare, Altavilla, Rovito, Pagania Vallonecupo, San Nicola Arcella

To the main travel overview: Cosenza.