We the Italians April 18, 2016 - 78 | Página 21

tH # 78 APRIL 18 , 2016 Comunale displays works by contemporary artists. Mormanno, on the other hand, still bears traces of its Lombard foundations, perched as a castle on a rocky buttress. Do The variety of the landscapes here makes the territory of Cosenza the ideal place for long trekking excursions. Its iconic animal is the wolf that lives on the woody plateau outside the city and is still the symbol for Cosenza. lino offers opportunities to practice rafting and canoeing, especially on the River Lao, among canyons and gorges. During recent years, Nordic walking has become more widespread, as it is a light and easy sport suitable for everybody. Canyoning, on the other hand, may be practiced climbing up the Iannello stream, a tributary of the Lao that is characterized by several waterfalls. During the excursions, guides provide rope for rock-climbing. Water parks can be found along the coast, like Odissea 2000, in Zolfara, near Rossano, and the coastline is well-equipped for water sports, from wind surfing to water skiing, as well as for beach volleyball and five-a-side football. Inland, many fairs and festivals offer opportunities to taste typical dishes and discover local traditions. Trekking routes lead to the discovery of small churches and wonderful landscapes that can be admired from charming wooden bridges. The flat, hilly areas are often exploited for horseback riding. And photography enthusiasts can find plenty of inspiration. During wintertime, organized snowshoe excursions in the mountains are popular, while ski Taste establishments are located in the highest areas of The culinary specialties of the Sila National Park. the Province of Cosenza are based on its genuine The National Park of Pol- and simple products. The cuddrurieddri are salted doughnuts prepared for the Immacolata Feast and during the Christmas period. The turididdri are fried Christmas pastries covered with figs and honey, while the scaliddre are sugar-glazed. An example of a first-course dish is the pitta 'mpigliata, fresh fusilli, pasta with potatoes (tijeddra), fried potatoes and pipareddre (peppers), broccoli and sausages, lagane and ciciari (thick tagliatelle and chickpeas), and fresh pasta with mushrooms fromSila. Among the fish dishes, the most famous are fried cod and spaghetti with anchovies and fried breadcrumbs. Mostaccioli are the typical pastries for the Feast of Saint Joseph, consisting of a focaccia bread made with honey or figs, mulled wine, flour and almonds, in a particular shape deriving from ancient offerings to the pagan gods. We also recommend the anise liqueur, one of the most appreciated of the area. WE THE ITALIANS | 21 www.wetheitalians.com