Il parco archeologico di Cariati e Terravecchia

The Cariati-Terravecchia Archaeological Park (Pruija) is essential for understanding pre-Roman Ionian Calabria, particularly the organization of the Brettii and their strategic role in the Ionian Gulf. It stands on a plateau about 3 km from Terravecchia, overlooking the Fiumenicà valley (ancient Hylias) and the Ionian Sea. Here are the remains of a Brettii fortified center from the 4th–3rd century BC, with sections of walls, towers, and residential structures. The site is one of the cornerstones of the Brettii's internal defense system along the Ionian coast of Cosenza and is the focus of an archaeological park project shared by the municipalities of Cariati and Terravecchia. It represents one of the "hidden gems" of Calabria's archaeological heritage, often less promoted than the major classical sites, but no less important.

Interesting Facts

The name "Pruìa" may derive from an indigenous Italic root; local legend has rendered it in dialect as "Pruija."

The chamber tomb ("Brettian Tomb") measures approximately 4.45 x 4.20 meters with an access corridor one meter long and approximately 84 centimeters wide; The interior was plastered with vertical bands of red, yellow, black, and white.

Objects found in the tomb include an anatomical cuirass, a bronze helmet, spears, an iron falcate sword, and Italiot red-figure pottery, indicating a high-ranking figure in the Brettii community.

The site has been nominated by the FAI (Italian National Trust) as a "Places of the Heart" under the heading "Pruja Park – Terravecchia, CS."



From the Pruia plateau, a panoramic view of the Ionian valley and the coast is offered, evidence of the Brettii's deliberate choice to occupy strategically located locations.