Ripassano

Ripassano is a small municipality located in the southeastern part of Italy, within the administrative boundaries of the Province of Cosenza in the Calabria region. The town sits amid rolling hills at an elevation that typically ranges between 200 and 300 metres above sea level, providing a mild Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The local population is modest, with recent census data indicating roughly 2,000 inhabitants, most of whom are involved in primary sector activities such as agriculture, particularly the cultivation of olives, citrus fruits, and vineyards, alongside a growing service sector that caters to nearby tourism.

The origins of Ripassano date back to the early medieval period, and its name is believed to derive from the Latin word "riparius," indicating a connection to riverbanks or floodplains, reflecting the proximity of the forces of the Calore River which historically shaped the area's settlement patterns. Historical landmarks include the 12th‑century Saint Andrea Church, which showcases Romanesque architectural features, and the small parish museum that houses artifacts from the Lombard and Norman eras. In recent decades, Ripassano has pursued sustainable development initiatives, preserving its agricultural heritage while incorporating eco‑tourism projects such as guided trails that highlight regional biodiversity. The municipality maintains a cooperative relationship with neighboring towns, fostering cultural exchanges and joint festivals that celebrate Calabria’s culinary traditions and folkloric heritage.