Orsomarso

Orsomarso is a place in Italy in the northwest of the Calabria region in the province of Cosenza with 1327 inhabitants ( 31 December 2012).

General

The town is located 102 km north of Cosenza. The inhabitants live mainly from tourism. There are good hiking trails in the vicinity of the place. Orsomarso is located on the lower reaches of the river Lao. Tue districts ( frazione ) are Bonicose, Buonangelo, Castiglione, Marina di Orsomarso, Molina, Scorpari and Vallementa. The neighboring municipalities are Lungro, Mormanno, Papasidero, San Donato di Ninea, Santa Domenica Talao, Santa Maria del Cedro, Saracen, Scalea and Verbicaro. The place has been inhabited since pre-Roman times.

Demographics

According to the latest census by ISTAT 2001 545 households were registered. The reduction in population of 15.8 % in the period 1991-2001 indicates a clear trend of rural depopulation. Since the high of 1951, the population actually dropped by around 55 %.

Attractions

On a rocky outcrop, the Byzantine church of Santa Maria di Mercure from the 11th century is, with its highly visible clock tower. The climb offers a picturesque view of the river valley of the Lao, the Piazza and the main church of San Giovanni Battista from the 17th century.

Gallery

Piazza San Giovanni Battista with Chiesa - View from Clock Tower

Orsomarso in the mountains

Orsomarso in the mountains