Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione of Altomonte

The church of Santa Maria della Consolazione was built around 1336, but it stands on the site of an earlier Norman church from the 11th century – Santa Maria de’ Franchis. It is like a temple within a temple – layers of spirituality and history. It does not resemble the typical churches of Calabria. It has a rose window like in French cathedrals, Gothic portals and a tower like in a castle, and inside – knights’ tombs and frescoes from 700 years ago. Instead of crowds – peace that is conducive to reflection.

The church's facade faces west, but not only symbolically. The rays of the western sun enter through a huge rose window and at the appropriate hours create a light show inside, which in the Middle Ages was supposed to enhance prayer and admiration for the divine light.