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Province of Reggio Calabria

Reggio Calabria Province
Scilla, province of Reggio Calabria
Anna Majkowska, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Calabrian province of Reggio Calabria is right on the 'toe' of Italy in the heart of Mediterranean Sea. Reggio Calabria has the Ionion Sea to the east and the Tyrrhenian Sea to the south and west and the land inbetween is high, wooded and rich. It faces Sicily which is just 3.2 km across the Strait of Messina on the Tyrhennain side. To the north it borders the provinces of Vibo Valentia and Catanzaro.

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Reggio Calabria Province
Province of Reggio Calabria, Calabria

The Tyrhennain coast in this province is notable for its buildings and terraces high on the cliffs overhanging the sea. This coastal area is known as the Costa Viola because of the reflections, particularly at sunset, which turn the colour of the sea to violet. This stretch of coast also has a large and important port at Gioia Tauro which is on the route connection the Suez to Gibralter and is one of the busiest maritime corridors in the world.

This is a very fertile province heavily wooded with beech, fir, chestnut and oak trees. Vines and olives are produced along with the bergamot orange, clementines and other citrus fruits. A large part of this province is taken up by the Aspromonte National Park which is covered with hectares of pine forests on the Tyrrhenian side and beech on the Ionian side.

There are a lot of fast flowing rivers in this province, the largest of which is the Stilaro which is almost 60km long. Because it is mountainous there are also many spectacular waterfalls of which the Cascata del Marmarico which is 114m high.

The province of Reggio Calabria is also rich in history and mythology and there are many traces of the Magna-Graecia culture. Mythology and history merge into one in the little town of Scilla which is distinctive with a rock jutting out into the sea on top of which sits a castle (Ruffo Castle).

The town of Reggio Calabria is the capital of the province is the largest, oldest and most heavily populated town in the region of Calabria and one of the oldest towns in the whole of Italy. It is a popular holiday resort and has a lovely, wide open promenade called the Lungomare Falcomatà where you can stroll and look across the Straits of Messina to Sicily. There are many important and interesting building and musuems in this town, the most important being the National Museum of Greater Greece where the Riace Bronzes are housed.

This province is also home to a ghost town, Pentedattilo, which was damaged, and subsequently deserted, by an earthquake in 1783. The village remained empty until 1960 when volunteers spent 20 years partially restoring it.

Other villages worth noting are Bova which is dominated by the ruins of a Norman Castle, Roghudi, a good example of Magna-Graecia colonisation, Galatro a famous thermal establishment, Gerace which was built on a hill of sea fossils and the fast growing tourist resort of Palmi.

Located at the southernmost tip of the Italian peninsula, 'Reggio Calabria Province' is a region steeped in history, natural beauty, and cultural richness. It is the largest province in the 'Calabria region', bordered by the 'Ionian' and 'Tyrrhenian seas' and separated from the island of 'Sicily' by the 'Strait of Messina'. From ancient Greek ruins and breathtaking coastal vistas to the vibrant energy of 'Reggio Calabria city', the province offers an immersive experience into Italy’s multifaceted heritage. With its blend of pristine beaches, mountainous landscapes, and a vibrant cultural scene, Reggio Calabria is a hidden gem that attracts travelers looking for authentic Italian experiences.

Historical Overview of Reggio Calabria Province

Reggio Calabria has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. It was one of the earliest Greek colonies in Southern Italy, known as 'Rhegion', founded around the 8th century BCE. The ancient city played a significant role in 'Magna Graecia', a region that was an intellectual and cultural powerhouse of the Greek world. Rhegion thrived as a cultural and trading hub due to its strategic position at the crossroads of the Mediterranean.

Over the centuries, the area fell under 'Roman' rule, followed by control from the 'Byzantines', 'Normans', and later the 'Spanish'. Each of these civilizations left their mark on the city’s architecture, culture, and social fabric, contributing to the region’s diverse identity.

Perhaps one of Reggio Calabria’s most famous contributions to the world is the discovery of the 'Bronzi di Riace', two ancient Greek bronze statues that date back to the 5th century BCE. These statues, unearthed from the Ionian Sea near Riace in 1972, are considered masterpieces of classical Greek art and are displayed in the National Archaeological Museum in Reggio Calabria.

Must-See Attractions in Reggio Calabria Province

Reggio Calabria City

The provincial capital, 'Reggio Calabria city', is a vibrant urban center with a deep historical and cultural heritage. 'Corso Garibaldi', the city’s main street, is a bustling avenue filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, where visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere.

One of the key attractions in the city is the 'National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria', which houses the famous 'Bronzi di Riace' statues. These two life-size bronze warriors are among the most important surviving works from ancient Greece and attract art lovers and historians from around the world. The museum also contains a wealth of artifacts from the Magna Graecia period, including pottery, weapons, and sculptures.

Another must-visit is the 'Reggio Calabria Cathedral', originally built in the 11th century and reconstructed multiple times following earthquakes. The cathedral showcases a mix of Romanesque and neo-Romanesque architectural styles, reflecting the city’s layered history.

'Lungomare Falcomatà', a beautiful seafront promenade, is often referred to as “the most beautiful kilometer in Italy” due to its sweeping views of the Strait of Messina and Sicily. Lined with palm trees, gardens, and historic buildings, the promenade is a perfect place for an evening stroll.

Scilla

Nestled on the Tyrrhenian coast, the picturesque fishing village of 'Scilla' is one of the most beautiful and iconic locations in Reggio Calabria Province. According to Greek mythology, Scilla was home to the legendary sea monster 'Scylla', who, along with Charybdis, guarded the narrow Strait of Messina.

Scilla is divided into two sections: 'Chianalea', the ancient fishing district known for its colorful houses perched along the water, and 'Marina Grande', a stunning beach area. Dominating the town is 'Ruffo Castle', a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the coastline and the shimmering sea below. Scilla’s charm, combined with its mythological significance, makes it a must-visit destination.

Gerace

Located inland, the medieval hilltop town of 'Gerace' is a treasure trove of history and architecture. With its well-preserved stone buildings, narrow streets, and breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea, Gerace is one of the most picturesque towns in the province. The town’s centerpiece is the 'Cathedral of Gerace', one of the largest in Southern Italy, dating back to the 11th century. The cathedral’s Romanesque design and Norman influences reflect the town’s historical importance.

Another attraction is the 'Norman Castle', which sits at the top of the hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Gerace is also known for its 'artisanal crafts', particularly pottery and weaving, which can be found in local workshops.

Aspromonte National Park

For nature lovers, 'Aspromonte National Park' is a stunning natural reserve that covers much of the mountainous terrain in Reggio Calabria Province. The park is named after 'Mount Aspromonte', a limestone massif that rises above the region, offering breathtaking views of both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian coasts.

The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including wolves, golden eagles, and rare plants. It offers numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic spots for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most spectacular sites in the park is the 'Montalto', the highest peak in the Aspromonte range, which provides panoramic views across Calabria and even to Sicily on clear days.

Cultural Heritage and Traditions

Reggio Calabria Province is a land of deeply rooted traditions, with its cultural heritage reflected in its festivals, music, and crafts. The province’s identity has been shaped by centuries of influence from Greek, Roman, Norman, and Spanish cultures.

Religious Festivals

Religious festivals play a significant role in the cultural life of Reggio Calabria. One of the most important is the 'Festa della Madonna della Consolazione', the patron saint of the city, which takes place in September. The festival features a large procession where the statue of the Madonna is carried through the streets of Reggio Calabria, accompanied by music, prayers, and fireworks.

Another notable event is 'Holy Week in Gerace', where traditional processions reenact the Passion of Christ, attracting visitors from across Italy to witness the ancient rituals.

Music and Dance

Traditional 'Calabrian folk music' is an integral part of the province’s cultural identity, with instruments like the 'zampogna' (bagpipes) and 'tamburello' (tambourine) commonly used in local performances. The 'tarantella', a lively folk dance, is often performed during festivals and celebrations, with its fast-paced rhythms and intricate footwork captivating audiences.

Gastronomy of Reggio Calabria

The cuisine of Reggio Calabria is a reflection of the region’s agricultural and coastal bounty. The food is rustic, hearty, and full of intense flavors, often incorporating local ingredients such as 'peppers', 'olives', and 'citrus fruits'. The proximity to both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas provides the province with a rich variety of seafood.

Swordfish (Pesce Spada)

One of the province’s signature dishes is 'swordfish', which is commonly grilled or served with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon, and herbs. The waters around the Strait of Messina are famous for swordfish fishing, and the fish features prominently in many local recipes.

'Nduja

''Nduja', a spicy, spreadable pork sausage, is a staple of Calabrian cuisine, originating in the nearby province of Vibo Valentia. It is often used to flavor pasta dishes or served with bread. Its distinctive fiery flavor comes from the generous use of local 'Calabrian chili peppers'.

Citrus Fruits and Bergamot

Reggio Calabria is famous for its 'bergamot' oranges, a fragrant citrus fruit used in perfumes, cosmetics, and the production of 'Earl Grey tea'. Bergamot is also used in local desserts and liqueurs, offering a unique taste of the region.

Beaches and Coastal Attractions

Reggio Calabria’s stunning coastline is one of its most appealing features. Whether you’re looking for sandy beaches, rocky coves, or dramatic cliffs, the province has something to offer every beach lover.

The Costa Viola

The 'Costa Viola' (Violet Coast) stretches along the Tyrrhenian Sea and is named for the violet hues that the water takes on during sunset. Towns like 'Bagnara Calabra' and 'Palmi' are popular for their beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. The area is also perfect for snorkeling and diving due to the rich marine life found along the rocky coastline.

The Ionian Coast

The 'Ionian Coast' offers miles of sandy beaches and turquoise waters, particularly around towns like 'Locri' and 'Roccella Ionica'. The Ionian beaches are less crowded than the more famous Italian coastal destinations, making them perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Conclusion

Reggio Calabria Province is a captivating destination that offers a perfect mix of ancient history, vibrant culture, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Whether exploring the ancient Greek ruins of Capo Colonna, hiking in the rugged Aspromonte Mountains, or savoring local delicacies along the scenic coast, Reggio Calabria provides a truly unique and enriching Italian experience. As a lesser-known gem in Southern Italy, the province invites travelers to discover the beauty, charm, and authenticity of Calabria.

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More Details

Flag of Calabria
Calabria flag
  • Regional Information

    • Area: 15,081 km²
      Population: 1.9m
      Density: 130/km²
      Capital: Catanzaro

      National Parks:
      The Pollino National Park
      The Sila National Park
      Aspromonte National Park
Location of Calabria
Calabria location
Provinces of Calabria
Calabria provinces
  • Comunes of Calabria
    • Catanzaro
      • Albi
        Amaroni
        Amato
        Andali
        Argusto
        Badolato
        Belcastro
        Borgia
        Botricello
        Caraffa di Catanzaro
        Cardinale
        Carlopoli
        Catanzaro
        Cenadi
        Centrache
        Cerva
        Chiaravalle Centrale
        Cicala
        Conflenti
        Cortale
        Cropani
        Curinga
        Davoli
        Decollatura
        Falerna
        Feroleto Antico
        Fossato Serralta
        Gagliato
        Gasperina
        Gimigliano
        Girifalco
        Gizzeria
        Guardavalle
        Isca sullo Ionio
        Jacurso
        Lamezia Terme
        Magisano
        Maida
        Marcedusa
        Marcellinara
        Martirano
        Martirano Lombardo
        Miglierina
        Montauro
        Montepaone
        Motta Santa Lucia
        Nocera Terinese
        Olivadi
        Palermiti
        Pentone
        Petrizzi
        Petronà
        Pianopoli
        Platania
        San Floro
        San Mango d’Aquino
        San Pietro a Maida
        San Pietro Apostolo
        San Sostene
        San Vito sullo Ionio
        Santa Caterina dello Ionio
        Sant’Andrea Apostolo dello Ionio
        Satriano
        Sellia
        Sellia Marina
        Serrastretta
        Sersale
        Settingiano
        Simeri Crichi
        Sorbo San Basile
        Soverato
        Soveria Mannelli
        Soveria Simeri
        Squillace
        Stalettì
        Taverna
        Tiriolo
        Torre di Ruggiero
        Vallefiorita
        Zagarise

    • Cosenza
      • Acquaformosa
        Acquappesa
        Acri
        Aiello Calabro
        Aieta
        Albidona
        Alessandria del Carretto
        Altilia
        Altomonte
        Amantea
        Amendolara
        Aprigliano
        Belmonte Calabro
        Belsito
        Belvedere Marittimo
        Bianchi
        Bisignano
        Bocchigliero
        Bonifati
        Buonvicino
        Calopezzati
        Caloveto
        Campana
        Canna
        Cariati
        Carolei
        Carpanzano
        Casole Bruzio
        Cassano all’Ionio
        Castiglione Cosentino
        Castrolibero
        Castroregio
        Castrovillari
        Celico
        Cellara
        Cerchiara di Calabria
        Cerisano
        Cervicati
        Cerzeto
        Cetraro
        Civita
        Cleto
        Colosimi
        Corigliano Calabro
        Cosenza
        Cropalati
        Crosia
        Diamante
        Dipignano
        Domanico
        Fagnano Castello
        Falconara Albanese
        Figline Vegliaturo
        Firmo
        Fiumefreddo Bruzio
        Francavilla Marittima
        Frascineto
        Fuscaldo
        Grimaldi
        Grisolia
        Guardia Piemontese
        Lago
        Laino Borgo
        Laino Castello
        Lappano
        Lattarico
        Longobardi
        Longobucco
        Lungro
        Luzzi
        Maierà
        Malito
        Malvito
        Mandatoriccio
        Mangone
        Marano Marchesato
        Marano Principato
        Marzi
        Mendicino
        Mongrassano
        Montalto Uffugo
        Montegiordano
        Morano Calabro
        Mormanno
        Mottafollone
        Nocara
        Oriolo
        Orsomarso
        Paludi
        Panettieri
        Paola
        Papasidero
        Parenti
        Paterno Calabro
        Pedace
        Pedivigliano
        Piane Crati
        Pietrafitta
        Pietrapaola
        Plataci
        Praia a Mare
        Rende
        Rocca Imperiale
        Roggiano Gravina
        Rogliano
        Rose
        Roseto Capo Spulico
        Rossano
        Rota Greca
        Rovito
        San Basile
        San Benedetto Ullano
        San Cosmo Albanese
        San Demetrio Corone
        San Donato di Ninea
        San Fili
        San Giorgio Albanese
        San Giovanni in Fiore
        San Lorenzo Bellizzi
        San Lorenzo del Vallo
        San Lucido
        San Marco Argentano
        San Martino di Finita
        San Nicola Arcella
        San Pietro in Amantea
        San Pietro in Guarano
        San Sosti
        San Vincenzo la Costa
        Sangineto
        Santa Caterina Albanese
        Santa Domenica Talao
        Santa Maria del Cedro
        Santa Sofia D’Epiro
        Sant’Agata di Esaro
        Santo Stefano di Rogliano
        Saracena
        Scala Coeli
        Scalea
        Scigliano
        Serra d’Aiello
        Serra Pedace
        Spezzano Albanese
        Spezzano della Sila
        Spezzano Piccolo
        Tarsia
        Terranova da Sibari
        Terravecchia
        Torano Castello
        Tortora
        Trebisacce

    • Crotone
      • Belvedere di Spinello
        Caccuri
        Carfizzi
        Casabona
        Castelsilano
        Cerenzia
        Cirò
        Cirò Marina
        Cotronei
        Crotone
        Crucoli
        Cutro
        Isola di Capo Rizzuto
        Melissa
        Mesoraca
        Pallagorio
        Petilia Policastro
        Rocca di Neto
        Roccabernarda
        San Mauro Marchesato
        San Nicola dell’Alto
        Santa Severina
        Savelli
        Scandale
        Strongoli
        Umbriatico
        Verzino

    • Reggio Calabria
      • Africo
        Agnana Calabra
        Anoia
        Antonimina
        Ardore
        Bagaladi
        Bagnara Calabra
        Benestare
        Bianco
        Bivongi
        Bova
        Bova Marina
        Bovalino
        Brancaleone
        Bruzzano Zeffirio
        Calanna
        Camini
        Campo Calabro
        Candidoni
        Canolo
        Caraffa del Bianco
        Cardeto
        Careri
        Casignana
        Caulonia
        Ciminà
        Cinquefrondi
        Cittanova
        Condofuri
        Cosoleto
        Delianuova
        Feroleto della Chiesa
        Ferruzzano
        Fiumara
        Galatro
        Gerace
        Giffone
        Gioia Tauro
        Gioiosa Ionica
        Grotteria
        Laganadi
        Laureana di Borrello
        Locri
        Mammola
        Marina di Gioiosa Ionica
        Maropati
        Martone
        Melicuccà
        Melicucco
        Melito di Porto Salvo
        Molochio
        Monasterace
        Montebello Ionico
        Motta San Giovanni
        Oppido Mamertina
        Palizzi
        Palmi
        Pazzano
        Placanica
        Platì
        Polistena
        Portigliola
        Reggio Calabria
        Riace
        Rizziconi
        Roccaforte del Greco
        Roccella Ionica
        Roghudi
        Rosarno
        Samo
        San Ferdinando
        San Giorgio Morgeto
        San Giovanni di Gerace
        San Lorenzo
        San Luca
        San Pietro di Caridà
        San Procopio
        San Roberto
        Santa Cristina d’Aspromonte
        Sant’Agata del Bianco
        Sant’Alessio in Aspromonte
        Sant’Eufemia d’Aspromonte
        Sant’Ilario dello Ionio
        Santo Stefano in Aspromonte
        Scido
        Scilla
        Seminara
        Serrata
        Siderno
        Sinopoli
        Staiti
        Stignano
        Stilo
        Taurianova
        Terranova Sappo Minulio
        Varapodio
        Villa San Giovanni

    • Vibo Valentia
      • Acquaro
        Arena
        Briatico
        Brognaturo
        Capistrano
        Cessaniti
        Dasà
        Dinami
        Drapia
        Fabrizia
        Filadelfia
        Filandari
        Filogaso
        Francavilla Angitola
        Francica
        Gerocarne
        Ionadi
        Joppolo
        Limbadi
        Maierato
        Mileto
        Mongiana
        Monterosso Calabro
        Nardodipace
        Nicotera
        Parghelia
        Pizzo
        Pizzoni
        Polia
        Ricadi
        Rombiolo
        San Calogero
        San Costantino Calabro
        San Gregorio d’Ippona
        San Nicola da Crissa
        Sant’Onofrio
        Serra San Bruno
        Simbario
        Sorianello
        Soriano Calabro
        Spadola
        Spilinga
        Stefanaconi
        Tropea
        Vallelonga
        Vazzano
        Vibo Valentia
        Zaccanopoli
        Zambrone
        Zungri
Hotels in Calabria
Calabria hotels
CalabriaWEATHER
Calabria Climate (Catanzaro)
  High Low Sun Rain
Jan 15 8 4 63
Feb 15 8 4 52
Mar 17 9 5 43
Apr 19 11 6 31
May 24 15 7 17
Jun 28 18 9 9
Jul 31 22 10 6
Aug 31 22 9 9
Sep 28 19 7 29
Oct 24 16 6 53
Nov 20 12 4 63
Dec 17 10 4 59
Table Key:
High - Average monthly high temperatures
Low - Average monthly low temperatures
Sun - Average hours of sunshine per day
Rain - Average monthly rainfall in mm
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