Calabria

Featured Lists

Beppeveltri / CC BY-SA 3.0

provincia di Cosenza Essentials

The province of Cosenza spans from the rugged peaks of the Sila and Pollino National Parks to the dramatic cliffs of the Riviera dei Cedri. This selection highlights the region's medieval heritage, featuring the Swabian castle of Cosenza and the coastal fortresses of Sangineto and Amantea. Natural landmarks include the iconic Arcomagno rock arch, the Raganello Gorges' medieval stone bridge, and the expansive Sila forests and lakes, offering a comprehensive look at Calabria’s diverse geography and history.

10 places

Franc rc / CC BY-SA 3.0

Must-See Landmarks in Calabria

Explore Calabria’s architectural and historical diversity through this selection of landmarks. The list features the Greek-style Arena dello Stretto in Reggio Calabria, the Norman-era aqueduct of Morano Calabro, and the 11th-century fortifications of Santa Severina. It also includes significant commemorative sites like the Ara dei Fratelli Bandiera and the medieval stone engineering of the Devil's Bridge. These locations span from the Ionian coast to the rugged interior, representing the region's Byzantine, Norman, and Risorgimento heritage.

8 places

Flinkies / Public domain

Hidden Gems of Calabria

Calabria’s landscape holds layers of history, from the Paleolithic rock engravings at Romito Cave to the Greek ruins of Capo Colonna and Locri Epizephyrii. This collection features the Roman mosaics of Casignana, the Byzantine Castle of Sant'Aniceto, and the 11th-century Norman ruins of Castello di San Michele. Visitors can explore the Cistercian Abbey of Santa Maria di Corazzo and the cave-dwelling sanctuary of Santa Maria della Stella. These sites represent the region's complex heritage, including Magna Graecia, Roman engineering, and medieval fortifications.

13 places

Ggia / CC BY-SA 3.0

Castles and Fortresses of Calabria

Calabria’s coastline and rugged interior are defined by fortifications reflecting its strategic Mediterranean location. This selection highlights the region's diverse military architecture, featuring the 15th-century Aragonese fortress of Le Castella, the Byzantine ruins of Sant'Aniceto, and the Norman-Swabian castle of Cosenza. These structures demonstrate centuries of defensive evolution, from Saracen watchtowers like Torre Talao to the sprawling ducal residence in Corigliano Calabro, showcasing Norman, Swabian, and Spanish influences.

15 places

José Luiz / CC BY-SA 4.0

Religious Heritage of Calabria

Calabria’s spiritual landscape is defined by its diverse architectural heritage, ranging from the intricate 9th-century Byzantine brickwork of the Cattolica di Stilo to the massive Norman cathedrals of Tropea and Gerace. Significant sites include rock-hewn chapels like Piedigrotta, carved into seaside caves, and high-altitude sanctuaries like Santa Maria delle Armi. These locations preserve rare Byzantine icons, ancient Greek marble columns, and the legacies of monastic traditions that shaped the region’s cultural identity over a millennium.

15 places

AlMare / CC BY-SA 2.5

Culture and Arts in Calabria

Calabria’s cultural landscape spans from the ancient foundations of Magna Grecia to contemporary artistic expressions. This selection features the National Archaeological Museum in Reggio Calabria, home to the Riace Bronzes, alongside the industrial history of the Bourbon Ironworks in Mongiana. It includes historic performance venues like Cosenza’s Teatro Rendano and Catanzaro’s modern Teatro Politeama, as well as the unique MuSaBa open-air museum, which integrates modern installations with 10th-century monastic remains.

14 places

Mac9 / CC BY-SA 2.5

Coastal Escapes in Calabria

Calabria’s coastline along the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas features a diverse landscape of granite cliffs, white sand beaches, and strategic maritime hubs. This selection spans from the iconic coves of Capo Vaticano and the dramatic rock formations of Tropea to the functional marinas of the Strait of Messina. It includes unique natural landmarks like the sea-bound olive tree of Palmi and essential transport links like Villa San Giovanni, providing a comprehensive overview of the region's maritime character.

10 places

Antonio Martino / CC BY-SA 3.0

Calabria Outdoor Escapes

Calabria’s rugged interior features the Pollino Massif, home to the region's highest peaks like Serra Dolcedorme and Monte Pollino. The Sila and Serre Calabresi ranges offer diverse landscapes, from the man-made Cecita and Angitola lakes to the granite massifs of Reventino and Monte Pecoraro. This collection highlights the area's natural heritage, including the ancient settlements at the Tauriani Archaeological Park and the significant peaks of the Southern Apennines.

13 places

Calabria — Map

Climate & when to visit

Best time to visit: May, June, July, August, September

Practical information

Tours & Activities