Calabria 'is a land of contrasts'

Sunday November 4th , 2007

An expat teacher has described the beauty and atmosphere of the peninsula of Calabria, Italy, as a place of extremes in temperature and scent that has not lost its historical attraction.

Frances Petroni has lived in Spezzano Albanese since 1971 when she married her husband Paulo and has taught in many schools in the area.

Writing for the Telegraph, she says that while temperatures can reach below zero in the mountains in winter, the coasts enjoy a climate that basks in heats over 40 degrees C in the summer.

The main town in the region, Cosenza, is the cultural capital that has retained its old charms while being economically successful, due in part to the university.

Attractions include a recently restored cathedral and the Rendano Theatre, says Ms Petroni.

"The people of Calabria are hospitable, fun loving, generous, genuine, outgoing and honest," she adds.

Calabria is split into five provinces, the largest of which is Cosenza.

The region boasts many famous inhabitants from history, including the mathematician Pythagoras.