We started off the day in Lamazia Terme with Carlo, Peppino and Domenico who gave us maps and packets of information about the region. Lamazia Terme is actually comprised of three towns: Nicastro, Sambiase, and Eufamia. We visited the local archeological museum. Two excellent guides took us through the museum showing us the treasures of the area. We saw an ancient will stamped on bronze, an ancient loom, and a 2000 year-old tomb.
Jason asked what “Terme” means in the name “Lamazia Terme.” Domenico explained that Terme means “thermal baths,” and we were then on our way to a thermal bath center. As we got out of the car, we immediately smelled the aroma of sulphur. We went inside where people were breathing the sulphur steam for health purposes. We went back outside, and Martina waded into the thermal pool. Many lizards scurried around.
On our way to lunch we stopped at a large structure created by the knights of Malta.
Carlo joined us for lunch at the hotel, but could not join us for dinner because his wife was returning from Lourdes (in France).
We had some free time so we wandered around the train station.
Salvatore picked us up at 3:30 and took us to the mall so that we could buy Italian SIM cards for our cell phones. Jason, who was confused by all of the calling plans, decided to stick with a good old fashioned calling card.
Next we went to a kiwi farm owned by Rudolfo and his wife. Nadia, Marisa, and Rudolfo fed us cake and then drove us through the farm in the back of a pick-up truck. The kiwi farm began in 1971 with 10 plants. Now there are 14,000. Some interesting facts: there is one male kiwi plant to 7 females. Kiwis contain vitamins A, B, and C. One kiwi has more nutrition than 3 oranges. Rudolfo also grows olive trees for olive oil (olio), and has over 5000 olive trees. Everything is contained on 48 hectares, and very little pesticide is used. Rudolfo invited us to join him for harvest season in November. Jason is seriously considering it.
Next we went for a long walk around the town of Nicastro, and were rewarded with Gelato. Finally, we had a quiet dinner at our hotel. Notice the order: Gelato first, dinner second.
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