In the heart of Calabria’s hinterland, nestled among the Sila mountains, lies Castelsilano—a village that narrates history, traditions, and an unbreakable bond with the land. One of its most captivating landmarks is the Arca di Girimonte, a unique work of art that harmonizes nature and creativity.
The Arca di Girimonte: a masterpiece in nature
The Arca di Girimonte, created in the 1970s by the Calabrian sculptor Giovanni Girimonte, is a stone structure resembling a large ark set amidst greenery. Surrounded by majestic gardens that retain their original splendor, the work is not only a tribute to the artist’s creativity but also a symbol of the connection between humans and nature.
Girimonte envisioned the ark as a monument to hope and salvation—a place to reflect on life’s fragility and resilience. Every stone, every line of the structure tells a story, emanating a sense of peace and harmony that captivates the visitor’s soul.
An itinerary of art and spirituality
A short walk from the Arca leads to the Church of Maria Santissima Immacolata, a place of worship rich in artistic and spiritual elements. Inside, the granite baptismal font and exquisite Florentine mosaics offer a unique visual experience. The nearby Madonna della Campagna Chapel, featuring a statue of the Virgin by the renowned sculptor Demetz Ortisei, is a pilgrimage site, especially during the grand August celebration.
An open-air museum
Castelsilano is a village where art lives among its streets. In addition to the Arca di Girimonte, murals adorning building facades depict scenes of daily life and local traditions, turning the town into an open-air museum. Each mural is a window to the past and a bridge to the present—a way to preserve culture and evoke emotions.
Nature and breathtaking landscapes
The Arca di Girimonte is set within lush nature, inviting exploration of the surrounding trails. The village serves as an ideal starting point for excursions to the Sila Piccola highlands, where visitors can admire breathtaking landscapes and discover the area’s rich flora and fauna. Nearby karst caves and natural sulfur springs add a touch of mystery and beauty to the region.
A destination for the heart and mind
Visiting Castelsilano and the Arca di Girimonte means immersing oneself in a place where art, nature, and spirituality converge. It is an experience that speaks to the heart, inviting one to slow down and reflect on life’s beauty and the importance of preserving cultural and natural heritage.
The Arca is not just a work of art—it is a symbol of hope, an invitation to embark on a journey toward a more mindful future, carrying with it the best of our history and traditions.
