Lungro is a village that enchants with its historical, cultural and natural beauty. With its well-preserved Arbëreshë identity and wealth of traditions, the village is a must-see for those who wish to learn about the deep roots of Calabria and its unique heritage.
Lungro is an enchanting village that stands majestically in the province of Cosenza, Calabria, enveloped in the natural beauty of the Pollino National Park. Located about 600 meters above sea level, Lungro is surrounded by verdant hills and mountains that offer spectacular scenery and an atmosphere of tranquility. Its history is rooted in the medieval past, when it was known as Lungrum. Its importance increased in the 15th century, when a group of Albanian refugees, seeking refuge from the Ottoman invasion, settled in these lands, giving rise to a community that has managed to preserve its cultural and linguistic identity.
Lungro is today one of the most significant centers of the Arbëreshë ethnic-linguistic minority. The Arbëreshë language, an Albanian dialect, still resounds through the streets of the village, testifying to a tradition that has been kept alive over the centuries. Lungro's churches and monuments are a reflection of this history, with the Cathedral of St. Nicholas of Myra towering in the center of the village. This building, of Greek-Byzantine rite, is an extraordinary example of architecture that combines Eastern and Western elements, and is decorated with frescoes and icons that narrate the spirituality and culture of the Arbëreshë community.
Lungro's history is not only linked to its cultural and linguistic traditions, but also to significant events of the Italian Risorgimento. During this tumultuous period, the village became a center of activity for patriots fighting for independence and the unification of Italy. The inhabitants, known for their courage and fighting spirit, played an active role in the revolutionary uprisings, helping to write an important page of national history. Even today, the memory of those events is alive in the toponymy of the village, which commemorates the protagonists of that period.
Another chapter in Lungro's history is represented by its famous Salt Mine. Active since ancient times, this mine became a major source of livelihood for the local community, supplying salt to much of southern Italy. Not only is the mine an example of mining engineering, but it also gave rise to an important social fabric, with the emergence of the first mutual aid societies and strikes in defense of the workers.
Lungro is not only a place of history, but also offers a rich tourist experience. Walking through the historic center, one comes across picturesque squares, historic buildings and charming little churches. The "G. B. Rennis" Historical Museum of the Salt Mine is a must-see attraction, where you can learn about the life of miners and admire a collection of memorabilia and historical documents.
The village is also an ideal starting point for exploring the Pollino National Park, where nature lovers can enjoy hiking, trekking, horseback riding and birdwatching. The mountain trails surrounding Lungro offer breathtaking views, with the opportunity to immerse oneself in unspoiled nature.
Every season in Lungro is marked by events and celebrations that draw visitors from all over. In spring and summer, the village comes alive with religious and cultural festivals, including Byzantine Easter, which mixes sacred rites and folk traditions. Autumn, with its warm colors, is ideal for excursions in the surrounding area, while in winter Lungro is dressed in Christmas lights and a magical atmosphere, culminating with the Great Blessing of the Waters on January 6.
Village of Lungro
Municipality of Lungro
Province of Cosenza
Calabria Region
Inhabitants: 2200 lungresi
Altitude center: 600 m s.l.m.
the municipality is part of:
Parco Nazionale del Pollino
Municipality
Piazza Felice Cavallotti, 1 - Tel. 0981945155
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Lungro, an enchanting municipality perched in the mountains of Calabria, is an authentic treasure chest of typical food and wine, where Arbëreshe tradition is intertwined with Mediterranean flavors. The local gastronomy is a triumph of fresh pasta, such as the renowned maccheroni (rrashkatjelt) and gnocchi (strangulrat), often served with simple fresh tomato sauces or rich pork and kid sauces.
Prominent among the specialties is the emblematic dish Shtridhëlat me fasule, a delicacy of handmade pasta served with a tomato and bean sauce that represents a deep connection to Arbëreshe roots. Other traditional dishes such as dromsat, rustic dumplings served with a tomato and chili sauce, tell the story of the simplicity of peasant cuisine. Porcini mushrooms and pork dishes, such as stew with dried peppers, celebrate the authentic flavors of the area.
There is no shortage of local delicacies such as salami flavored with wild fennel and cheeses produced in mountain pastures, perfect to accompany robust local wines. Finally, typical desserts such as kulaçi and grispellets enrich the gastronomic tradition, making Lungro's cuisine a fascinating sensory journey through history and unforgettable flavors.
