The road of the two seas: Vallefiorita
At the edge of the road leading from the Ionian Sea to the Tyrrhenian Sea, we visit this picturesque village at the foot of the Serralta di San Vito
Where is
This municipality is located along the road of the two seas.
Where Vallefiorita is: in the background of the Serralta
A short detour from the road that climbs from Squillace toward the Serre leads to this town (332 m) set on a spur between the small valleys that furrow the eastern slopes of Mount Serralta di San Vito, one of the landmark peaks of the watershed ridge.
A name that stands out in the landscape
The town is split in two by the Alessi River, which flows down from the Serre towards the Gulf of Squillace. Ancient mills and olive presses remain along its course, testifying to the agricultural vocation of the place, which is still relevant today: extensive olive groves, up the hills, orchards and crops in the plain, which still justify the name Vallefiorita.
A bit of history, the town of Vallefiorita and Sant'Elia.
The town is of probable medieval origin, consequent on the presence of a Basilian monastery dedicated to Saint Elias, who appears in the municipal coat of arms with a silver sword folded across his chest. Upstream from the bridge stretches the oldest part of the village, paved streets that suddenly open up to wide openings and then close in small alleys and steep stairways. From the municipal villa, wide views of the hills sloping toward the Gulf of Squillace.
Not to be missed: San Rocco, the most heartfelt of the resident saints.
The most valuable element of the historical-architectural heritage is the parish church dedicated to St. Sergius and Associates - Bacchus, Marcellus and Apuleius - associated with him on the path to sainthood. It was rebuilt after the 1783 earthquake in sober neoclassical forms with a square base and roof bell tower. The patron saint St. Roch is celebrated in August, a major event that sees the return of the many emigrants.
Interesting fact: Calabrisella country.
The economy is still based on agriculture, and with excellent results: In fact, Vallefiorita is part of the National Association of Oil Cities, but that's not all, because it also has a good tradition for wine, especially from malvasia, zibibbo and muscat grapes. Also in terms of tradition, Vallefiorita is notable for its annual Miss Calabrisella folkloric contest that awards the best female costume.
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