Nestled in the rugged hills of Calabria, southern Italy, the small village of Gallicianò stands as a living bridge to the ancient world. Known as the “Citadel of Great Greece,” it is a place where the legacy of ancient Greek culture has endured for centuries, preserved by the people of the Area Grecanica a region where the ancient Greek language, customs, and spirit continue to thrive.
Calabria, shaped by the meeting of Mediterranean civilizations, has long been a crossroads of history. Greek settlers began arriving in the 8th century BC during the era of Magna Graecia, when southern Italy became home to flourishing Greek colonies. The valley of the Amendolea River has been inhabited since the Neolithic era, demonstrating the area’s ancient human presence.
Gallicianò itself is a remarkable relic of this rich heritage. The first recorded mention of the village dates back to 1060 AD, found in a Byzantine church document that refers to it as “to galikianòn.” Some historians believe the name originates from Gallicum, an ancient Greek city near modern-day Kilkis in northern Greece, whose people may have sought refuge in Calabria after fleeing Bulgarian invasions. Another theory suggests the name comes from a Roman family, the Gallicius, who may have once owned land in the area.
Today, while the village faces challenges such as depopulation and migration to larger cities, the traditions of Gallicianò live on. Though many of the original inhabitants have left in search of work, around 20,000 residents still call this region home. A few speak Greko, a form of ancient Greek, while others continue to prepare traditional Greek-Calabrian dishes and celebrate customs passed down through generations.
At the heart of Gallicianò is the Church of San Giovanni Battista, located in Alimos Square. This centuries-old Catholic church, once the main parish (arcipretale), houses a beautiful marble statue of Saint John the Baptist, created in the 18th century by artists from the Gagini school. The church also features two historic bells, dating back to 1508 and 1683, and serves as a reminder of the village’s ties to both the Catholic and Byzantine-Christian traditions.
Gallicianò is not just a village it is a living museum. The stone walls, narrow paths, and heartfelt traditions of its people tell the story of a place where the spirit of ancient Greece still echoes. Despite the challenges of modern life, the village remains a testament to the resilience of culture, language, and faith.
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