Bova, Italian comune
Bova is a small commune in Calabria, southern Italy, perched on a high cliff at the edge of Aspromonte National Park. The town features narrow winding streets, ancient stone buildings, and historical structures including Norman Castle ruins and two stone gates marking the entrance to its center.
Bova traces its roots to Magna-Graecia times as part of ancient Greek colonies in Italy. The town later became a center for trade and defense under Norman rule, with the castle serving as a key defensive position for the region.
Bova is defined by its living Greek language, called Griko, which local people still speak as a daily legacy from ancient times. The town comes alive with events like the Palm Sunday procession and the August Paleariza Festival, where traditional music and dancing celebrate this heritage.
Reaching Bova involves scenic coastal routes from Reggio Calabria with views over the sea toward Sicily. Once there, visitors can explore the narrow, steep streets on foot and find cozy guesthouses offering a slow-paced experience of local living.
An old steam engine stands as a monument in the village center, marking the town's railway past. High above, the Lovers Cave offers sweeping views of mountains, the river, the sea, and the distant snow-covered slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily.
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