Spezzano Albanese, Italian comune
Spezzano Albanese is a commune in the province of Cosenza situated about 320 meters above sea level, nestled among hills and the valley of the Crati River. The town is defined by the Sanctuary of Madonna delle Grazie and features archaeological sites such as Torre Mordillo from the 9th century BC and remains of Norman-era towers.
The town was originally founded by Albanian refugees who fled the Ottoman Turks in the 15th century, bringing their Arbereshe traditions with them. Archaeological findings reveal much earlier settlement dating back to the Bronze Age, and Norman towers document medieval fortification of the region.
Spezzano Albanese is a center of Arbereshe culture, an Albanian community that has lived here since the 15th century. The traditions appear in local festivals, the spoken language, and colorful costumes worn during celebrations, especially at Carnival and Easter processions.
The town is easily accessible by car via local roads and offers small inns and restaurants serving local dishes. The best time to visit is during festival periods when traditional customs such as processions and the Carnival horse race take place.
During Carnival, the unique Corsa dei Cavalli takes place here, a horse race where riders attempt to hit floating rubber targets with small spears. This traditional spectacle shows the town's connection to ancient chivalric traditions.
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