Abbazia del Patire

Abbazia del Patire is a monastery complex nestled in the Sila Greca forests at an elevation of about 600 meters (1,970 feet). The building features three naves and mosaic floors decorated with mythological creatures and intricate patterns.

Founded in 1095, this monastery gained independence from church authority a decade later, which allowed it to become one of southern Italy's wealthiest religious institutions. The granted autonomy helped it flourish and accumulate significant resources.

The scriptorium here was a center for manuscript production, with monks creating works that traveled to major libraries across Europe. You can sense this scholarly tradition when walking through the spaces where such detailed work once took place.

The complex can be visited as it is managed by a biodiversity conservation unit. From this elevated location, you get broad views across the Sibari plain toward the Ionian Sea.

The southern entrance displays detailed architectural patterns that show influences from Islamic design traditions. Inside, a mosaic floor from the 12th century survives with animal figures woven throughout the composition.