Calabria is a beautiful region in southern Italy that offers a lot of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of its main attractions is its coastline, which has plenty of beaches and marine reserves where you can enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving. Calabria is also rich in history and culture, with ancient ruins and medieval towns to explore.
If you’re interested in history, you can visit the archaeological sites of Locri Epizefiri and the Roman town of Scylletium. Alternatively, you can explore the medieval towns of Gerace and Stilo, which have many historic churches, castles, and other landmarks. Calabria is a great destination for anyone who wants to experience beautiful scenery, and delicious cuisine, and learn more about the region’s past.
Historical Landmarks
The Bronzes of Riace
The Bronzes of Riace are two Greek bronze statues that were discovered in the Ionian Sea off the coast of Riace in 1972. These life-size statues, one of a warrior and the other of an athlete are considered to be some of the finest examples of ancient Greek sculpture. They date back to the 5th century BC and are now on display at the National Museum of Reggio Calabria.
Reggio Calabria’s Aragonese Castle
Reggio Calabria’s Aragonese Castle is a medieval fortress that was built in the 15th century. It is located on a hill overlooking the city and the Strait of Messina. The castle has a rectangular shape and features four towers at each corner. It was used as a prison until the early 20th century and is now open to the public as a museum.
Sybaris Archaeological Park
Sybaris Archaeological Park is an ancient Greek city that was founded in the 8th century BC. It was one of the most important cities in Magna Graecia and was known for its wealth and luxurious lifestyle. The city was destroyed in the 5th century BC and was rediscovered in the 1960s. The archaeological park features the remains of the ancient city, including the ruins of public buildings, houses, and temples. It also has a museum that displays the artefacts found during the excavations.
In Calabria, visitors can explore historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich past. The Bronzes of Riace, Reggio Calabria’s Aragonese Castle, and Sybaris Archaeological Park are just a few examples of the fascinating historical sites that await visitors.
Natural Attractions
Aspromonte National Park
Aspromonte National Park is a protected area located in the southern part of Calabria. It is known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. The park covers an area of over 640 square kilometres and features a variety of habitats, including forests, mountains, and rivers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird-watching, and camping in the park.
Some of the most popular attractions in Aspromonte National Park include the Cascade del Maesano, a series of waterfalls that cascade down a rocky gorge, and the Monte Consolino, a mountain that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Costa Viola
Costa Viola is a stretch of coastline located on the western side of Calabria. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches. Visitors can explore the coastline by boat or by foot and can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. Some of the most popular beaches in Costa Viola include Spiaggia di Riaci, Spiaggia di Tropea, and Grotticelle Beach.
Sila National Park
Sila National Park is a protected area located in the central part of Calabria. It is known for its vast forests, lakes, and mountains. The park covers an area of over 740 square kilometres and features a variety of wildlife, including wolves, wild boars, and deer. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, and camping in the park. Sila National Park’s most popular attractions include Lake Ampollino, a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, and the Monte Botte Donato, a mountain that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
Calabria is known for its stunning beaches and picturesque coastal areas. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in the sun or an adventurous water sports experience, Calabria’s beaches have something for everyone.
Tropea Beach
Tropea Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With its crystal clear waters and soft sand, it’s no surprise that Tropea Beach has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag for its cleanliness and environmental management. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports such as snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The beach is also surrounded by restaurants and cafes, making it a great spot to grab a bite to eat after a day in the sun.
Scilla Beach
Scilla Beach is a hidden gem located in the charming fishing village of Scilla. The beach is known for its dramatic scenery and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can take a stroll along the promenade, which offers stunning views of the coastline and the nearby Chianalea district. The beach is also a great spot for snorkelling and diving, as it’s home to a variety of marine life.
Capo Vaticano
Capo Vaticano is a must-visit destination for beach lovers. The area is known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, which are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the nearby caves and grottoes, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning views. The area is also home to a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a great spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat.
Culinary Experiences
Traditional Calabrian Cuisine
Calabria is a region known for its rich and flavorful cuisine. Traditional Calabrian dishes are often simple yet full of flavour, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes include ‘nduja, a spicy spreadable salami, and caciocavallo cheese, a semi-hard cheese made from cow’s milk.
Seafood is also a staple of Calabrian cuisine, and dishes such as swordfish and tuna are often served grilled or roasted. Other popular dishes include pasta alla Norma, made with eggplant, tomato sauce, and ricotta salata cheese, and sardines stuffed with breadcrumbs, pine nuts, and raisins.
Wine Tasting Tours
Calabria is also home to several vineyards and wineries that produce high-quality wines. Wine-tasting tours are a great way to experience the local wine culture and sample some of the region’s best wines. Some of the popular wineries include Librandi, Statti, and Ceraudo.
Visitors can learn about the wine-making process, taste different wines, and even purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs. Many wineries also offer guided tours of their vineyards, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the region.
Cooking Classes
For those who want to learn how to cook traditional Calabrian dishes, cooking classes are a great option. Several cooking schools and local chefs offer classes that teach visitors how to make dishes such as pasta alla chitarra, a type of pasta made with a guitar-like stringed tool, and involtini, meat rolls stuffed with cheese and prosciutto.
Cooking classes often include a trip to the local market to purchase ingredients, followed by a hands-on cooking session where participants learn how to prepare and cook the dishes. At the end of the class, participants get to enjoy the fruits of their labour by sitting down to a delicious meal.
Outdoor Activities
Hiking and Trekking
Calabria offers some of the most beautiful and challenging hiking and trekking trails in Italy. With stunning views of the sea and mountains, hikers can choose from a variety of routes that cater to all skill levels. The Aspromonte National Park is a popular destination for hikers and trekkers, with its rugged terrain and diverse flora and fauna. The Sentiero Italia, a long-distance trail that runs through the entire length of Italy, also passes through Calabria and offers hikers a chance to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Water Sports
Calabria’s long coastline and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and windsurfing. The Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas offer different experiences, with the Ionian being more suitable for windsurfing and the Tyrrhenian for scuba diving. The region’s many beaches are also perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is a popular activity in Calabria, with its rugged terrain and picturesque landscapes providing a perfect setting for an adrenaline-fueled ride. The Aspromonte National Park is a popular destination for mountain bikers, with its challenging trails and breathtaking views. The region also has several cycling routes that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. Visitors can rent bikes and explore the region’s natural beauty at their own pace.
Cultural Festivals and Events
Calabria is a region that is rich in cultural heritage, and many festivals and events showcase this. Here are some of the most popular cultural festivals and events in Calabria.
Tarantella Festival
The Tarantella Festival is an annual event that takes place in the town of Caulonia. It is a celebration of the traditional dance of the region, the tarantella. The festival features live music, dancing, and food, and is a great way to experience the local culture.
Peperoncino Festival
The Peperoncino Festival is a celebration of the spicy pepper that is grown in Calabria. The festival takes place in the town of Diamante and features food stalls selling spicy dishes, live music, and a pepper-eating contest. It is a great way to experience the unique flavours of Calabrian cuisine.
Festa della Madonna della Consolazione
The Festa della Madonna della Consolazione is a religious festival that takes place in the town of Reggio Calabria. It is a celebration of the patron saint of the city and features a procession through the streets, as well as live music and food stalls. It is a great way to experience the religious traditions of Calabria.
Overall, these cultural festivals and events are a great way to experience the unique culture of Calabria. Whether you are interested in music, food, or religion, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Art and Museums
National Gallery of Cosenza
The National Gallery of Cosenza is one of the most important art museums in Calabria. The gallery is located in the historic centre of Cosenza and houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. Visitors can admire works by famous Italian artists such as Caravaggio, Titian, and Raphael, as well as local artists.
MUSABA Art Park
MUSABA Art Park is a unique museum located in the heart of the Sila National Park. The museum is dedicated to contemporary art and features a wide range of installations, sculptures, and other artworks. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike, and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings while admiring the artworks.
Museum of Brettii and Enotrians
The Museum of Brettii and Enotrians is located in the town of Crotone and is dedicated to the ancient history of Calabria. The museum features a wide range of artefacts and exhibits related to the ancient Brettii and Enotrian civilizations, including pottery, jewellery, and other objects. Visitors can learn about the rich history of the region and gain a deeper understanding of Calabria’s cultural heritage.
Related
