Just like San Costantino, it is a small town of Arbëresh (Greek-Albanian) origins within the Pollino National Park.The village retains strong links with the Albanian language and the Byzantine rites which can be seen in the customs, weddings and festivals of the village.The celebration of the Holy Mass takes place in the Albanian language or, depending on the day and events, may be celebrated in Greek according to the Byzantine rite.
The Museum of Arbëresh Culture of San Paolo Albanese contains numerous testimonies of the Albanian ethnic group including the tradition of hand weaving. The bright yellow ‘broom’ plant was an essential ingredient used in the production giving the cloth a unique style.Textile production is still a way of village life and can be seen as you wander through the street and peek into the carefully restored local houses.
