Paola is a small town in the province of Cosenza, on the west coast of Calabria. The town lies at the foot of the Apennine Serra mounts, a short distance from the Tyrrhenian sea. The city was chosen as the center of Mountain Community, formed by twelve towns of this area. The territory surrounding surprising for its color and its flavors. The green of mountains and hills contrast with the deep blue of the sea, while in the streets of the village we breathe the scent of basil and chili that are grown on terraces of houses.
The town is known to have given birth to St. Francesco da Paola, who was born here in 1416. The Saint protector of seafarers, has devotees throughout the world and every year many of them come here to visit his shrine. The building was begun by Francis himself not far from the town center. After the structure was significantly expanded and enriched with precious works of art, including the magnificent bronze door. Inside are preserved some of the relics of the saint. In May are celebrated the festivities with colorful processions.
The town center is certainly Piazza del Popolo adorned with a seventeenth-century monumental fountain made by local artists. On the same square facing the church of Madonna di Montevergine, with the beautiful baroque facade. With a staircase we came in the upper part of the village where we can visit the remains of the Aragonese castle. For the variety of its natural beauty, ranging from the sandy coastline to the surrounding hills, Paola is a perfect place both for lovers of history that for who want tranquillity and relax.
