About the City
Altomonte
Charming southern Italian town known for its sustainability and 'slow' lifestyle.
Altomonte: Cittaslow Excellence
Altomonte (CS), with a population of 4,723, stands out for its commitment to the Cittaslow movement through policies structured around sustainability and well-being. Documented assessments highlight an excellent level of approval, peaking at 100% for awareness-raising initiatives and 83.33% for hospitality services.
Environmental Projects and Urban Quality
Monitoring and Purification: Monthly water quality checks and air monitoring (via the EDISON plant) are conducted regularly, and a fully operational purification system is maintained for the sewage and wastewater networks.
Waste Management: The operational plan includes door-to-door separate waste collection, the use of dedicated bins for glass and plastic, daily collection of municipal solid waste, and targeted management of durable goods and used oils.
Urban Innovation: The municipality has implemented LED street lighting to maximize energy savings, launched a city-wide wireless network, and established a master plan for the color scheme of historic buildings.
Infrastructure and Social Development
Historic Redevelopment and Accessibility: Major restoration projects include the Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione, the Norman Tower, and the creation of the Food and Wine Center. Architectural barriers have been removed in municipal offices, the theater, and the Civic Museum, which is now equipped with an elevator.
Community Services and Care: The healthcare and social care network includes a multi-purpose center managed in partnership with the local health authority (ASP), outpatient clinics, and an active medical guard service. Various associations provide home care services for the elderly and people with disabilities, while a new youth center is currently under construction.
Green Spaces: The community has access to well-maintained natural areas equipped with amenities, most notably the "De Rose" Farneto Park.
Promoting Local Products and Hospitality
Traditions and Agriculture: The area is home to numerous organic farms and actively celebrates traditional crafts through historical events such as the "Gran Festa del Pane" (Great Bread Festival) and the "Fiera dei Cento Comuni" (Fair of the Hundred Municipalities).
Nutrition Education: The "Altomonte 2000 Città della Prevenzione" association collaborates with *Cittadinanza Attiva* to promote targeted projects regarding nutrition in canteens, complemented by the upcoming opening of the Food Museum.
Tourism and Awareness: A year-round tourist information point and a municipal guide service welcome visitors, supported by clear signage directing them to monuments and rural districts. The local administration actively promotes the *Cittaslow* philosophy through public conferences and by encouraging transparent pricing across all local businesses.
The Slow Experience
Details & Programs
Altomonte, located in the Calabria region of southern Italy, embodies the Slow City (Cittaslow) philosophy, emphasizing high quality of life, preservation of cultural and historical heritage, sustainable practices, and strong community values. Known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and commitment to environmental sustainability, Altomonte is an ideal destination for those seeking to experience the essence of slow and sustainable tourism.
Now, let's dive into a three-day itinerary that highlights Altomonte's natural beauty, cultural richness, and gastronomic delights, all while adhering to the principles of slow and sustainable tourism.
Day 1: Exploration of Nature and Local Culture
Morning: Begin your visit with a guided eco-tour of the surrounding countryside, where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Calabria. Explore the lush landscapes, rolling hills, and perhaps even partake in a seasonal activity like olive picking or grape harvesting, depending on the time of year.
Afternoon: Venture into the heart of Altomonte to explore its historic landmarks. Visit the Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione, an architectural gem, and stroll through the quaint streets to discover local artisan shops. Engage with local craftsmen to learn about traditional techniques that have been preserved over generations.
Evening: Dine at La Locanda di Alia, renowned for its commitment to local sourcing and traditional Calabrian cuisine. The restaurant's dishes, prepared with locally sourced ingredients, offer a taste of the region's culinary heritage in an eco-conscious setting.
Day 2: Community Engagement and Gastronomic Experiences
Morning: Participate in a community-led workshop or activity that highlights local traditions or crafts. This could be a cooking workshop focusing on traditional Calabrian dishes or an artisanal class, such as pottery or textile making.
Afternoon: Visit a local farm or vineyard to learn about sustainable agricultural practices. Engage with the producers, learn about their commitment to eco-friendly methods, and sample organic products that highlight the region's agricultural bounty.
Evening: Attend a cooking class or enjoy a meal at an agriturismo, where you can savor traditional dishes made from fresh, farm-to-table ingredients. This experience not only indulges your taste buds but also supports local agriculture and sustainable dining practices.
Day 3: Leisure and Artisanal Discovery
Morning: Enjoy some leisure time to relax or explore Altomonte at your own pace. You might want to revisit a favorite spot or discover new hidden gems within the town.
Afternoon: Engage with the city's artisan scene by visiting local markets or workshops. This is an excellent opportunity to purchase unique, handmade products while supporting local artisans and the slow tourism ethos.
Evening: Conclude your visit with dinner at an innovative restaurant that blends traditional Calabrian flavors with modern culinary techniques. This dining experience should reflect Altomonte's culinary heritage while showcasing contemporary interpretations of classic dishes.
Accommodation Options:
Agriturismo L'Arca: An eco-friendly farm stay that offers a genuine experience of rural Calabrian life. The accommodation is committed to sustainable practices and allows guests to connect with nature and local traditions.
B&B Palazzo Pancaro: This bed and breakfast is housed in a restored historic building, offering a charming and authentic stay in the heart of Altomonte. The establishment emphasizes sustainability and supports the local community by promoting cultural and eco-tourism activities.
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of activities that allow you to explore Altomonte's natural beauty, engage with the community, and indulge in the local gastronomy, all while supporting sustainable and responsible tourism practices.
The Accomodations
