Discover Cropalati: Cammino Basiliano and Culture

Cropalati is situated on a hill above the valley of the Trionto River. The landscape around the town includes olive groves, vineyards, and holm oak forests; excursions on foot, by bicycle, and on horseback are possible in the surrounding area. The Cammino represents a long hiking stage, while cycling and horseback riding expand the possible ways to explore the area.

Hiking the Cammino Basiliano

For hikers, the 16th stage of the Cammino Basiliano is a notable point of reference. It runs from Paludi via Cropalati to Longobucco, is 28.5 km long, and involves 8–10 hours of walking. In the direction of Cropalati, the stage crosses the Coserie stream. The combination of distance and walking time provides a concrete planning framework for your own pace and necessary breaks. The stage can therefore be planned as a full day of hiking with a clearly defined time frame.

Water and the Valley

In the valley below Cropalati, the Coserie stream flows with very clear water. The Vurga is also located there, a natural pool in the Coserie River where swimming is possible in summer. The SP250 leads down into the valley of the Coserie stream.

The Historic Centre

The ruins of the medieval feudal castle have been preserved in Cropalati’s historic centre. The present-day urban settlement was established at the beginning of the 14th century around a feudal castle. Those interested in the development of the town encounter its history here in the preserved structural remains and in the layout of the settlement.

Churches with a Long History

The historic town centre also includes two churches with clearly defined historical periods: the parish church of Santa Maria Assunta dates from the 17th century. The Church of the Annunziata is now called the Church of the Rosary.

The Former Dominican Monastery

The former Dominican monastery is attached to the Church of the Rosary. It is shaped like a castle and houses an 18th-century painting of Ecce Homo. Its castle-like form and the painting add to the historical significance of this former monastic complex.

Santa Maria ad Gruttam

Just outside the built-up area lies the old abbey of Santa Maria ad Gruttam. The former monastic complex, now in ruins, was founded in the 12th century by Greek-Oriental hermit monks. Thus, the history of Cropalati extends from the medieval feudal castle to a monastic site outside the built-up centre.

Cropalati for Trails, Water, and History

Cropalati brings together the 16th stage of the Cammino Basiliano, the Coserie stream with the Vurga, and the historic sites in the town and just outside the built-up area. A holiday apartment in Cropalati can therefore serve as a base for a stay combining long stages, water, and local history.

More Places for Your Travel Planning

If you would like to discover other destinations besides Cropalati, you can also visit Cariati, Rocca Imperiale, Terme Luigiane, Torricella, San Marco Argentano, Bisignano, Nocera Terinese and Solfara Mare.

For the higher-level travel overview: Cosenza.