A day in Bisignano: the places to visit

Fancy a trip out of town near Cosenza?

Let's discover Bisignano, the ‘’Village of the Lute-makers‘’ and the historic family of craftsmen De Bonis, a town famous for its "Terre di Cosenza" DOC wine and its characteristic medieval palio.

The historic centre of Bisignano lies on a hill, at the foot of the last foothills of the Sila Greca, overlooking the Valle del Crati. It is a scenic place, boasting a rich historical and artistic tradition linked to the bishopric of the Bisignano-Cosenza diocese (8th century), the ruins of the Byzantine-Norman castle, the Cathedral and a host of traditions waiting to be discovered.

Arriving in the historic centre of Bisignano, we take a walk through squares, alleys, characteristic views, works of art, monuments and no less than 15 churches.

We start with the Cathedral of Bisignano and its Norman lines, which have escaped numerous earthquakes, with three entrances on the façade and a layout of the interior space similar to that of the Cathedral of Cosenza.

Among the churches to visit during a day out in Bisignano, we suggest the ancient little church of Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, also known as ‘’A Marunnèlla‘’, and the famous Shrine of Sant'Umile da Bisignano (1222), with its museum of the same name, a place of pilgrimage and popular devotion.

Inside, it is possible to visit the cell of Sant'Umile da Bisignano, which, in addition to housing the saint's relics, contains an 18th-century painting.

Are old books your passion? Know that in Bisignano there is an important 18th-century library commissioned by Bishop Bonaventura Sculco to preserve and make usable the family's precious book heritage: around 2,000 volumes that include ancient parchments in sheep's paper and numerous marriage documents.

During the walk through the historical centre of Bisignano, passing by number 9 Via della Giudecca, we discover why the town is known as the ‘’Village of the Lute-makers‘’.

It is home to the historic workshop of the De Bonis family, Calabrian luthiers since the 17th century who specialise in making the typical instruments of regional folklore: the chitarra battente and the lira. The "De Bonis Luthery" is currently run by Rosalba, the custodian of a family tradition that has been handed down for generations.

The town of Bisignano (Cosenza) is famous for a much-participated historical event: the "Palio of Bisignano" (or "Palio del Principe"), a knightly commemoration involving the main districts of the old town.

The Palio del Principe in Bisignano is inspired by a 17th-century tradition linked to the principality of the Sanseverino family, who resided in the San Zaccaria district, near the so-called Palazzo Nuovo: it was created as a tribute to Joseph Leopold, who settled in Bisignano on 7 April 1704 together with his bride, Princess Stefania Pignatelli, amid solemn celebrations. 

The current Palio, which commemorates the event, usually takes place in June and consists of a horse race (carousel) between the town's eight historical districts: Borgo di Piano, Piazza, San Simone, Giudecca, Santa Croce, San Pietro, San Zaccaria and Sant'Andrea (or Cittadella).

The Palio di Bisignano also includes an evocative medieval costume parade that winds its way from the entrance to the village to the door of the Piano district.

Among the participants in period costume is also the "prince", who receives the keys of the city on a silver tray and reaches the Cathedral parading under a canopy, followed by the confraternities.

Would you like to extend your trip around Bisignano?

It may be the right idea to treat yourself to a vineyard tour, among the wineries that produce the fine "Terre di Cosenza" DOC wine in the local variety.

On the Bisignano hills stands one of the best-known wineries in Calabria, which also produces organic extra virgin olive oil. The Bisignano winery offers hospitality in its renovated old farmhouse, walks in the vineyards and olive groves, and wine tastings accompanied by a platter of typical Calabrian products. 

Finally, if you want to treat yourself and your partner to a romantic and pure luxury stay in Bisignano, know that just outside the old town centre there is the possibility of staying in a "luxury glamping" equipped with every comfort.

The Bisignano glamping offers guests a warm outdoor Jacuzzi, a sauna-spa in an original barrel-shaped room, where they can sip the renowned Bisignano wine, and a relaxation area where they can practice yoga and taste other local organic products.