Lupia: Church, Festivals and Old Lanes

Lupia, a hamlet of Scigliano, offers several starting points for a trip: the architectural history of the Chiesa dell’Assunta, religious feast days, old lanes and stone portals. Another historical landmark is the Ponte di Sant’Angelo in Contrada Lupia. The landscape and Chinulille belong to the wider context of the municipality of Scigliano. When planning, you can therefore give separate consideration to local history, religious traditions and regional themes.

The Chiesa dell’Assunta: Architectural History and Floor Plan

The Chiesa dell’Assunta is located in Lupia. Construction began with the laying of the foundation stone on September 17, 1580; it was consecrated by Bishop Mons. Monaco on May 2, 1610. The two dates mark different stages in the building’s history. Bishop Gianjacopo Palemonio was also buried in the church.

Architecturally, the church has a typical Romanesque floor plan, with a central nave and two side aisles. The central nave forms the main area, with the two side aisles alongside it. This makes the three-part layout easy to understand. Two different aspects are therefore key to understanding the church: the layout and its historical milestones.

Feast Days and Religious Traditions

Two festivals are celebrated in Lupia on fixed calendar dates: the Feast of the Assumption on August 15 and the Feast of Saint Anthony on June 13. The Feast of Saint Anthony is preceded by thirteen days of rosary prayers and litanies. During the Quindicina in honor of the Assumption, children are brought to the church wearing special garments to give thanks for a grace received or to offer a votive prayer.

The dates provide a practical reference point for planning a trip; the prayers and votive practices also show the religious significance of these festive traditions. The two occasions differ both in the months in which they fall and in the customs associated with each.

Ponte di Sant’Angelo and the Surrounding Area

The Ponte di Sant’Angelo is located in Contrada Lupia, in the territory of Scigliano. The single-arch bridge has just one span. Due to a popular but historically inaccurate attribution, it is also known as Ponte di Annibale. Nearby are the ruins of an old church dedicated to Saint S. Angelo.

An alternative route for the SP70 from Altilia to Lupia, reported in July 2026, goes over the Ponte di Annibale. Since the route information dates from July 2026 and road conditions can change, check the current route before setting out.

Scigliano: Trails and Chinulille

The woods around Scigliano offer trails and scenic views. Traditional foods of the municipality include Chinulille, made with walnuts, honey, raisins and spices. The geographical distinction remains clear: the church, lanes and portals are in Lupia; the woods and Chinulille belong to the wider context of the municipality of Scigliano.

Accommodation in Lupia

Borgo Ospitalità is a hostel on Via Sant’Antonio in Scigliano (Lupia). Please confirm current availability before relying on this listing.

Discover More Destinations

Rende, Bisignano, Lungro, Orsomarso, Cassano Allo Ionio, Marina Di Fuscaldo, Villapiana, Solfara Mare

For the broader travel guide: Cosenza.