Discover Francavilla In Sinni

Francavilla in Sinni brings together the scenic setting of Pollino National Park, a rich local history and local traditions. Pollino shapes the surrounding landscape; the municipality is home to the Bosco Rubbio State Nature Reserve, in the heart of the park. Nature, culture and local cuisine offer different ways to shape your stay.

Nature and trails in Pollino

At least 31 bird species potentially breed in the Rubbio Special Protection Area. Around Francavilla in Sinni, several forest trails make hiking and horseback riding in Pollino National Park possible. You can shape the nature part of your trip according to your interest in birdlife or outdoor activity on forest trails.

Local history and churches

Francavilla sul Sinni was founded in the 15th century on the land of the Certosa di San Nicola, which had previously belonged to Prince Severino di Chiaromonte. Its founding story therefore combines a precise historical timeframe with the area's earlier ownership. In Piano Lacco, within the territory of Francavilla in Sinni, there are remains of a possible medieval settlement and medieval fortifications.

The parish church of San Felice e San Policarpo was built in the 19th century; its namesake saints are also the town's patron saints. The Madonna di Pompei shrine in the hamlet of San Biase also dates from the 19th century. The possible medieval settlement, the 15th-century founding and the religious buildings of the 19th century can thus be distinguished chronologically. Their local connections can also be distinguished: the Certosa di San Nicola is associated with the town's founding story, Piano Lacco with the possible settlement and fortification remains, and San Biase with the shrine.

Cuisine and wine festival

Traditional vegetable dishes from Francavilla in Sinni include “ciambotta,” “zafaren ammaianet” and “frittet co li sparij.” The local culinary tradition also includes cured meats, homemade fresh pasta, goat kid from local farmsteads and local wine.

Wine is also central to the Madonna di Pertusavutte village festival: dedicated to wine, it is celebrated on December 8, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Festival traditions include wine from barrels, as well as singing and dancing to the instruments “totarelli” and “cupa-cupa.” If you are planning your trip around the festival, check the date for the year you intend to travel.

Craft traditions

Craftsmanship is also part of local tradition. Traditional woodworking includes making barrels, vats and chairs. Wrought ironwork, ceramics and basketry are still practiced. A cooperative has also revived an old embroidery tradition that was once widespread among local women. This distinction over time is noteworthy: while several crafts are still practiced, embroidery draws on an earlier tradition that has been revived.

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For the broader travel overview: Potenza.