Francavilla Marittima

With its ancient origins, the town of Francavilla Marittima has spanned the centuries, from prehistory to feudalism, and still bears many traces of its distant past, starting with the archaeological sites of Timpone della Motta, where a primitive settlement of Enotrian origin once stood, followed by Magna Graecian colonisation; and the area of the so-called Necropolis of Macchiabate, another symbol of the pre-classical civilisation of the Oenotrians (9th century BC).

The more recent history of Francavilla Marittima, from medieval times to the early 20th century, is reflected in the ancient palaces and churches of the historic centre, which partly refer to the noble feudal family of the Sanseverino. Places to visit: the 18th-century Mother Church, characterised by an imposing bell tower; the churches of Madonna del Carmine, Santa Lucia and Sant'Emidio, as well as the Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of the Sick. Among the palaces, the 19th-century Palazzo Rovitti stands out.  

Nature lovers who choose Francavilla Marittima can enjoy everything from hiking in the Pollino mountains to rafting in the Raganello Gorges or swimming and relaxing on the nearby Ionian beaches.