Cetraro town

Cetraro, in the region of Cosenza, is a Calabrian coastal town located up to 120 metres above sea level on the Tyrrhenian sea or western side of the province. Cetraro is about one hour up the coast from Lamezia Terme international airport accessed from the town via a main coastal road and a railway station. See map. 

Cetraro was the first maritime town of the ancient Bruttians first mentioned in the 2nd century BC. Its name probably derives from the Citrus fruit still grown there. During the 12th century King Richard I, the Lionheart, of England stayed in Cetraro. 

Today, Cetraro has a population of just over 10,000 spread over 66 square kilometres. It is divided into an upper town, surrounding countryside and hills, and lower town or marina/borgo spreading to a port which leads to a two kilometre long beach. Serra Mountain overlooks Cetraro from over 600 metres. From the town, on a clear day it is possible to see the volcanic Aeolian Islands 140 km away. 

Cetraro has some charming old and new ecclesiastical and community architecture including a substantial Baroque church dedicated to San Benedetto (among four other churches including on Serra Mountain), an outdoor theatre and a museum. 

Cetraro also provides an outstanding yacht harbour, a four star hotel with a nine hole golf course, and many good restaurants. Nearby is a well equipped and professionally staffed hospital. As well, the town has shops, supermarkets and services for most needs along with outdoor markets on Saturdays. 

Cetraro's cultural programme from mid July to late September is worthy of a large European town. 

In 2020, Cetraro was awarded, among only ten Italian towns, a substantial financial grant to improve the town on behalf of the citizens, business and local government. 

Above all, Cetraro's people are outstandingly friendly and admirably dedicated in their work and pastimes. 

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