Morano Calabro, in the province of Cosenza, is one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy and a true jewel set on the slopes of the Pollino Massif. Its settlement, picturesquely perched on a hill, is known as the 'Nativity Village of Pollino' for its pyramid-shaped urban configuration, dominated by the ruins of the Norman-Swabian Castle. Morano is the ideal gateway to explore the natural beauty of the Pollino National Park and boasts an artistic-religious heritage of great value, evidenced by churches housing works by illustrious artists.

What our travel designers recommend: Art, Panoramas, and Hidden Treasures

• Norman-Swabian Castle (Castello Normanno-Svevo) – The ruins of the castle, enlarged by the Sanseverino family, offer the best panoramic view of the village's unique pyramid shape.
• Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Maddalena (Collegiata di Santa Maria Maddalena) – One of the most important religious buildings, with an imposing Baroque facade and an interior rich in polychrome marbles and works of art, including the Madonna degli Angeli by Antonello Gagini.
• Church of San Bernardino da Siena (Chiesa di San Bernardino da Siena) – A masterpiece of the Calabrian Renaissance, which houses the magnificent Sanseverino Polyptych by Bartolomeo Vivarini and the marble Triptych by Pietro Bernini.
• Rione San Nicola – The oldest and most charming district, a labyrinth of narrow alleys, steps, and houses perched on the cliff.

Gastronomy and Typical Products

• Lagane e Ceci – A typical dish of poor Calabrian cuisine, pasta made of flour and water (lagane) served with chickpeas and often enriched with chili pepper.
• Bocconotto di Mormanno (nearby) – A sweet pastry filled with jam and chocolate, often with almonds.
• Moscato di Saracena (nearby) – A valuable DOC passito wine, produced in the nearby hills.
• Cured Meats and Cheeses of Pollino – Excellent products of local pastoralism, such as soppressata and caciocavallo podolico.

Unique Experiences and Activities selected by local experts

• Trekking in the Pollino National Park (Parco Nazionale del Pollino) – Morano is the gateway to numerous trails leading among the Loricato Pines (symbol of the Park) and panoramic peaks.
• Visit to the 'Il Nibbio' Naturalistic Study Center – To delve into the flora and fauna of Pollino.
• Excursion to the Lavender Park in Campotenese (in season) – For a unique sensory experience among the blooming fields.
• Morano-Castrovillari Pedestrian and Cycle Path – Ideal for relaxing walks with views of the Coscile Valley.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Morano Calabro
• Official Website of the Pollino National Park

Top 3 Recommended Accommodations (Charme and Tradition)

• Hotel La Locanda di Alia – Offers a refined stay experience with a splendid view of the village.
• B&B L'Antico Borgo – For a full immersion in the atmosphere of the historic center, with careful hospitality.
• Hotel San Bernardino – Near the church of the same name, it combines comfort and a tranquil atmosphere.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants (Excellence Calabrian Cuisine)

• Ristorante L'Antico Torchio – Known for traditional Calabrian cuisine, with particular attention to Pollino products.
• Trattoria Il Monastero – Offers typical dishes in an evocative setting, often featuring mushroom and game proposals.
• Ristorante La Locanda di Alia – Refined cuisine that reinterprets local flavors in a gourmet key.