Praia a Mare is a town on the Tyrrhenian coast of Cosenza of almost 7,000 inhabitants, in the extreme north of Calabria. Originally a populous village of fishermen and farmers, it was initially the seaside village of the municipality of Aieta and became an independent municipality only in 1928.
Of uncertain etymology, the name Praia would derive from “Plaga Sclavorum” (or Plaga Slavorum) or beach of the Sclavoni (or of the Slavons), due to the presence of a large colony of Slavs, expert sailors sent by the Eastern Emperor Niceporo Foca (963-969), who wanted to oppose the dominion of the Saracens.
The town underwent considerable development between the 60s and 90s, thanks to the investments of the Marzotto and Agnelli group. Today it presents itself as one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Calabria, especially for the sea and for the natural, artistic and religious beauties located in the area.
