Castrovillari

Castrovillari is a commune in the Province of Cosenza spread across multiple elevations reaching 362 meters (1,187 feet) above sea level. The town sits surrounded by mountains of the Pollino National Park region.

The name derives from the Latin 'castrum villarum,' reflecting its original settlement character. Norman forces under Robert Guiscard captured the area in 1064, marking a turning point in its development.

The Franciscan monastery founded in 1220 was the first of its order in Calabria and remains important to the town's religious practices. Visitors can see how this religious heritage continues to shape daily traditions here.

Two exits from the A2 motorway offer direct access to the town. This location makes it easy to reach other destinations throughout the province.

The Castello Aragonese, built in 1490, displays architectural elements from different historical periods layered into one structure. Walking through it reveals how successive rulers added their own designs over time.

Location: Province of Cosenza

Capital city: Castrovillari

Elevation above the sea: 362 m

Shares border with: Altomonte, Cassano allo Ionio, Cerchiara di Calabria, Chiaromonte, Civita, Frascineto, Morano Calabro, San Basile, San Lorenzo Bellizzi, San Lorenzo del Vallo, Saracena, Spezzano Albanese, Viggianello, Terranova di Pollino

Website: http://comune.castrovillari.cs.it

GPS coordinates: 39.81667,16.20000

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:26