The Fiumara dell’Amendolea is a river located in the province of Reggio Calabria, within the Aspromonte National Park. It originates near Montalto, at an altitude of approximately 1,805 meters, and stretches for about 68 kilometers before flowing into the Ionian Sea near Condofuri.
Characterized by a torrent regime, the river features a wide, pebbly bed typical of Calabrian watercourses, with abundant flows during the winter and reduced flows in the summer. In its upper section, the waters flow rapidly and forcefully, while further downstream, they become calmer, sliding toward the sea through a wider bed.
Along its course, the Fiumara dell’Amendolea passes through a valley rich in biodiversity and stunning landscapes, including the Maesano Waterfalls, formed by a series of cascades on the Menta tributary. These waterfalls, easily accessible from the Menta Dam, are a popular destination for hikers and canyoning enthusiasts.
The Amendolea Valley is also an important cultural and linguistic center, as it hosts some of Calabria’s Grecanic communities, where the Greek dialect of Calabria is still spoken. Villages like Gallicianò, Roghudi, and Roccaforte del Greco preserve traditions and customs related to this ancient language and culture.
Thus, the Fiumara dell’Amendolea represents a key element of the landscape and culture of the Grecanic area, offering opportunities for hiking, nature-based activities, and cultural exploration.