In the second half of the 19th century, more precisely in 1867, ‘La porta di terra’, the land city-gate, considered as the principal entrance into the city of Crotone, was demolished to allow the town to expand. The same year, columns in Doric style, recalling the temple of Hera Lacinia at Capocolonna, were erected to compose the structural elements of the ‘porticos of Crotone’, the city’s living room.
A few years later, between 1880 and 1890, at the tail-end of the arcade, Alessandro Russo founded the historical Caffè Italia. Continuing the family tradition, it is run today by Alfonso Russo owner and descendant of the forefather.
At Caffè Italia, the traditional Calabrian patisserie art has its roots in an unique blend of Italian tradition and influences from a melting-pot of people that have enriched the cultural heritage of the area. Our famous Pitta ‘nchiusa (a pastry filled with walnuts, and raisins), and our renowned profiteroles meet the Sicilian cannoli, babà, zeppole, mille feuilles and many other sweet craft specialties.