PAPASIDERO - THE LAND OF THE BOS

Every Friday - Departure from Diamante at 8:30 AM, return at 1:30 PM - Duration: 5 hours

A journey through ancient history, spirituality, and local flavors, in the green heart of the Lao Valley, discovering the mountain village of Papasidero, nestled in the Pollino National Park.

We depart from Diamante, with the option to board at Grisolia, Santa Maria del Cedro, and Scalea, to then begin the adventure with a gentle trek towards one of the natural wonders of the Tyrrhenian Sea: Arcomagno.

The excursion begins with a visit to the Archaeological Park of the Romito Cave, one of the most important prehistoric sites in Europe, now recognized as a UNESCO geosite. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will admire the rock engravings, including the famous bovine carved into the rock over 12,000 years ago, and explore the cave and the small antiquarium, which preserves artifacts and reconstructions of the daily life of our distant ancestors.

After this adventure into prehistory, we stop for a tasty break: a tasting of local typical products, including cured meats, cheeses, honey, homemade bread, preserves, and traditional sweets — all genuine and made with care.

We then continue to discover the village of Papasidero, with its stone streets, ancient arches, and panoramic views of the Lao River. The excursion concludes with a visit to the evocative Sanctuary of Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, nestled in the rock: a place of great spirituality and beauty, which has been a point of reference for the valley's inhabitants for centuries.

Points of interest:
 • Romito Cave – rock engravings and internationally significant prehistoric site
 • Antiquarium – archaeological artifacts and evidence from the Paleolithic
 • Typical tasting – authentic flavors of local tradition 
 • Sanctuary of Santa Maria di Costantinopoli – spirituality and scenic beauty