Petilia Policastro

Situated at the foot of Mount Gariglione, in the Sila Piccola (Sila National Park), Petilia Policastro is a town in the province of Crotone known for the presence of an important Shrine that is a pilgrimage destination: the Shrine of the Holy Thorn, with reference to the relic it guards.

Indeed, it appears that the Shrine of Petilia, one of the most visited places of faith in Calabria and the destination of an important religious path, has been guarding the precious relic of a thorn belonging to the crown of Christ since the 16th century.

The historic centre of Petilia Policastro has recently become famous for its colourful murals, the work of artist Giuseppe Caruso, which render the area's most ancient history in contemporary form.

In addition to the Shrine of the Holy Thorn, there are several churches to visit in the village: from the Mother Church to the Church of St. Francis, passing through L'Annunziata (17th century), the Oratory and a series of Stations of the Cross along the Way of the Holy Thorn.

The territory of Petilia Policastro is criss-crossed by several karstic caves, some of which reach a depth of 100 metres and are surrounded by underground streams and lakes. In addition to those of geological interest, there are also Basilian caves in the territory (San Demetrio Caves), dating back to the era of Greek Orthodox monasticism.