Upper Tyrrhenian Cosentino · Riviera dei Cedri
Paola
Birthplace of Saint Francis of Paola, patron of Calabria, and a religious-tourism hub with its Sanctuary.
Paola is a town of about 15,000 inhabitants in the province of Cosenza, on the Tyrrhenian coast.
Geography
The town extends between the coastal strip and the upper, hilly part, where the Sanctuary stands.
History
It is best known as the birthplace of Saint Francis of Paola, patron of Calabria and of seafarers. It is one of Calabria’s religious-tourism destinations.
What to see
The Sanctuary of Saint Francis of Paola rises in the upper part of the town, in a valley bordered by the Isca stream; a modern basilica inaugurated in 2000 is attached, and part of the saint’s relics is kept there. The patron’s feast is celebrated from 1 to 4 May.
Getting there
By car via the A2 “del Mediterraneo” motorway; by train on the Tyrrhenian railway line; the nearest airport is Lamezia Terme.
Places
What to see around here.
Itineraries through here
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4 daysGrand tourGrand Tour of the Riviera dei Cedri
Four days from north to south along the Upper Tyrrhenian Cosentino coast: islands, Norman towns, murals and sanctuaries.
11 stops8 townsMay–OctoberSee the stops - 2 daysSacred & culture
In the footsteps of the sacred
Two days among sanctuaries and devotion, from Saint Francis of Paola to the Madonna della Grotta.
3 stops3 townsAll year roundSee the stops
Frequently asked questions
- The saint born in Paola, patron of Calabria and of seafarers; the town preserves his Sanctuary.
- The Sanctuary of Saint Francis of Paola, in the upper town, with the modern basilica inaugurated in 2000.
- From 1 to 4 May each year.
Who was Saint Francis of Paola?
What to see in Paola?
When is the feast of Saint Francis?
Discover locally
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Videos
Events
- Festa di San Francesco di Paola 1–4 maggio
Festeggiamenti del patrono.
Yearly