Cosenza, Medieval city center in Calabria, Italy
Cosenza is a commune in the province of Cosenza in Calabria, Italy, spread across several hills and valleys. The medieval old town climbs up a hillside, while newer districts extend along main roads toward the north.
The Romans founded a settlement here that became an important point on the Via Popilia, a road through the Calabrian mountains. During the Middle Ages, the town grew around a castle that stood on the highest point of the hill.
The city name comes from Latin and refers to the meeting of two rivers that still shape its layout today. In the narrow streets of the old quarter, locals gather in front of their homes to chat, while small shops sell regional products and traditional foods.
A walk through the old town involves steep stairs and narrow streets, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Train connections bring visitors to coastal towns and other places in the region, making it easier to explore the surrounding area.
Beneath the riverbed lies the supposed tomb of a Visigothic king who died in the fifth century. The river was diverted at the time to keep the grave hidden, and to this day no one has found the exact location.
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