Crotone, Italy

San Floro Silk Experience

Centuries-Old Craftsmanship Discover the intricate history of silk weaving in the Italian peninsula within the walls of a 15th-century castle. For centuries, this peninsula was Europe’s largest producer of silk. The Calabria region flourished, and the silk of Catanzaro supplied most of Europe, from the Middle Ages well into the 17th century. You will journey to the Silk Museum of San Floro—housed inside Caracciolo Castle, which overlooks the Corace Valley—to uncover this rich heritage. Here, exhibits include ancient dresses, Catanzaro damasks, holy tapestries and a 17th-century loom. Learn about the master weavers of Catanzaro, which was once the European capital of silk. Take a short, scenic drive into the heart of a mature pine forest, where you will learn about silkworm breeding (which dates back to the 11th century in this region) and even assist with a silk reeling demonstration. Savor a homegrown, homemade lunch, with all organic ingredients harvested from local producers. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.