Calabrian people are primarily of Italian ethnicity, though the region of Calabria is also historically home to several distinct ethnic minorities, including Albanians, Greeks, and Occitans.
Understanding Calabrian Ethnicity
Calabria, located at the "toe" of Italy's boot, is a region with a deep and complex history. The majority of its inhabitants identify as Italian, sharing a national identity while also possessing a strong regional character shaped by centuries of diverse cultural influences, including ancient Greek colonization, Roman rule, Byzantine presence, and various medieval and modern dominations. This rich past has forged a unique Calabrian identity within the broader Italian context.
Historical Ethnic Minorities in Calabria
Beyond the majority Italian population, Calabria has been a melting pot for various communities, resulting in the presence of significant historical ethnic minorities. These groups have preserved their unique languages, traditions, and cultural practices, contributing to the rich social tapestry of the region.
Here's an overview of the main historical ethnic minorities found in Calabria:
| Minority Group | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Albanians | Known as Arbëreshë, they are the most populous historical ethnic minority. They settled in Calabria primarily between the 15th and 17th centuries and are largely concentrated in the provinces of Cosenza and Catanzaro. They maintain their unique language (Arbëresh) and Byzantine rites. |
| Greeks | Descendants of ancient Greek colonists (Magna Graecia) and later Byzantine influences. A small community still speaks a distinct Greco-Calabrian dialect in some southern areas. |
| Occitans | A linguistic minority primarily found in the town of Guardia Piemontese in Cosenza province, descended from Waldensian refugees who arrived in the 13th century and later. |
The Arbëreshë Community
The Albanian ethnic minority, often referred to as Arbëreshë, stands out as the most numerous and historically significant of these groups. Their ancestors migrated from Albania and other Albanian-speaking areas of the Balkans to southern Italy following the Ottoman invasion, primarily between the 15th and 17th centuries. They established numerous villages, many of which are still known today for their dual Italian and Arbëresh names. These communities are predominantly located in the mountainous and hilly areas of the provinces of Cosenza and Catanzaro. The Arbëreshë have diligently maintained their distinct language, customs, traditional dress, and Greek-Byzantine religious rites, offering a unique window into a diaspora culture.
Other Notable Minorities
- Greco-Calabrians: While the influence of ancient Greece is evident throughout Calabria, a distinct ethnic group that speaks a derivative of ancient Greek, known as the Greco-Calabrian dialect (or Griko), persists in a few villages in the Aspromonte region, primarily in the province of Reggio Calabria. These communities represent a direct linguistic and cultural link to Magna Graecia.
- Occitans: The Occitan community in Calabria is small and isolated, primarily centered in Guardia Piemontese. They are descendants of Waldensians, a pre-Protestant Christian movement from the Cottian Alps, who sought refuge in Calabria centuries ago. They have managed to preserve their unique Occitan language and cultural identity despite their geographical isolation from other Occitan-speaking regions.
The presence of these historical minorities underscores Calabria's rich and multifaceted ethnic landscape, making it a truly diverse region within Italy.
