Wander around the preserved medieval quarter of this town and gaze out across hills overlooking the olive groves and vineyards of the Esaro Valley.
Altomonte is a Calabrian town with scenery so enchanting it has been nicknamed the Wedding City. Perched high on a hilltop in the province of Cosenza, Altomonte presents idyllic panoramas at every turn. Medieval-era buildings and historic churches appear to grow out of the hillside like ancient accretions of the stone. Wander around winding alleys and cobblestone streets and glimpse a place where time has stood still. See beautifully preserved façades, galleries displaying sacred works of art and towering turrets.
Get acquainted with the town’s medieval quarter on a self-guided walking tour. This historic centre covers the hilltop and has most of the town’s landmark buildings. On one side of the hill, see the grand Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione, built in the 14th century. This remarkable piece of Gothic-Angevin architecture contains the ornate carved sepulcher of local noble Filippo Sangineto. Visit the Museum of Santa Maria della Consolazione to explore the church’s collection of artworks, including sacred vestments, oil paintings, inlaid work and sculptures.
Stroll to the Torre Palotta to visit the town’s art gallery, Museo Franco Azzinari. Housed in a Norman-era defensive tower, this gallery has a significant holding of work by regional artists.
Nearby, find the Castello di Altomonte, which dates back to the 11th century and now contains a hotel. Explore the adjacent Dominican Monastery buildings to find the Civic Museum and library amid the 15th-century cloisters. San Francesco di Paola Church is a remarkably well-preserved piece of architecture with a golden-yellow façade.
Look at the sweeping views surrounding the hilltop and you’ll see why Altomonte is favoured by brides and grooms around the region. Vineyards, olive groves and citrus orchards speckle the hillsides. Be sure to taste fresh produce, including wines from local grapes.
Altomonte is 36 miles (58 kilometres) north of Cosenza. The region is best explored by car. Visit as part of a daytrip from the Calabrian hub or stay overnight in picturesque accommodation overlooking the Esaro Valley.
