Where is it
Condofuri is a municipality in southern Calabria, located a few kilometers from the Ionian coast, on the eastern slopes of Aspromonte. It is part of the Grecanic area, a territory in which the language and traditions of the Greeks of Calabria still survive.
Historical notes
The name Condofuri derives from the Greek Konta-Korion (nearby town), probably in reference to the proximity to Gallicianò or Amendolea, today its hamlets. In the Magna Graecia era, the town had an urban plan with a central agora, typical of the Hellenic colonies.
In 1811, a Bourbon edict elevated it to the status of municipal capital, detaching it administratively from Bova and subsequently from the province of Catanzaro in favor of that of Reggio Calabria. The town was severely hit by the earthquakes of 1783 and 1908, and since then has experienced constant depopulation.
Language and culture
Condofuri is today one of the symbolic centers of the Greek minority of Calabria. Archaic forms of Greek (Calabrian Greek) are still spoken there, especially in the hamlet of Gallicianò, the last outpost of the municipality, located on the side of Monte Scafi at 621 meters above sea level. The Hellenic culture is alive through Orthodox religious rites, traditional music, crafts, and cultural events.
Gallicianò
Gallicianò is considered the cultural heart of Calabrian Greekness. It stands on the right bank of the Amendolea river, immersed in a barren and wild landscape.
In the village, Calabrian Greek is still spoken, Orthodox rites are celebrated, and popular music concerts are held. To visit: the Orthodox Church of Panaghìa, the Ethnographic Museum, the House of Music, and the Fountain of Love.
Amendolea
The village of Amendolea takes its name from the homonymous river and perhaps from the almond trees (from the Greek amýgdalon) or from an ancient feudal family. Located between the sea and the Aspromonte, it is divided into two nuclei: Amendolea nuova, downstream, and Amendolea vecchia, now in ruins but still visitable.
At the top stands the suggestive Castello dei Ruffo, symbol of the medieval village. The ruins are not subject to restrictions, so they can be explored freely, offering a fascinating experience of spontaneous archaeology. The paths along the river are an ideal destination for trekking enthusiasts, especially towards the Cascate del Maesano.
Today
Condofuri now has about 4,500 inhabitants, but in the summer months it repopulates thanks to cultural and nature tourism. Its role as a bridge between Greek antiquity and contemporary Calabria makes it a precious center for the historical memory and identity of the entire Aspromonte area.