Calabria, our land

It was built by the Normans at the end of the Byzantine domination. Squillace at that time represented the most important political and religious stronghold of the Ionian coast, going through a time of great economic fervor. Under Frederick II a polygonal tower was built, visible on the east side. From 1256 the castle was enfeoffed under various families until in 1494 it passed by marriage to the Borgia family whose coat of arms dominates the entrance portal. In 1729 it returned to the royal domain and finally to the De Gregorio family who held it until the violent earthquake of 1783 that devastated the entire village.

The Park tells the story of Skylletion, a city of Magna Graecia, which later became a Roman colony, Scolacium. The area that today is expropriated, was part of the possessions of the Barons Mazza and constitutes with its centuries-old olive groves the green lung of the province. The findings testify to an intersection of frequentations from the Greeks to the Normans. The reason for so much interest was certainly the strategic position for the control of land and river routes. Inside the Park you will find remains of the Roman colony, the Forum with its unique paving, the Curia, the Cesareum, the 3,500-seat Theater and important Norman testimonies such as the homonymous basilica.

Le Castella is a famous tourist destination on the Ionian coast. Its Aragonese fortress built in the middle of the sea, on a platform is the reason for its fame. The castle has ancient origins and was built for defensive purposes. In fact, it was used as a shelter for soldiers engaged in protecting the territory from attacks by sea. Today inside you can admire photographs and artifacts, while from the top of the tower you can enjoy a beautiful view of the coast. In addition to visiting the castle, you can go on excursions on a glass-bottomed boat to admire the seabed of the coast.

Serra San Bruno is one of the mountainous locations of greatest tourist interest. Thanks to the monk Bruno of Cologne, who later became a Saint and protector of Serra, the first monastery of Carthusian monks in Italy was born shortly after the year 1000. In the historic center, on the way to the Certosa, you will appreciate some still intact buildings from the eighteenth century. In the surrounding areas, woods and nature trails will transport you to "wild & free" landscapes. But it is certainly the Certosa, immersed in an almost mystical dimension, that represents the most important destination of the trip. The place is highly contemplative and in addition to representing an important piece of history in the events of Calabria, it is rich in legends and has been a hospitable place for countless illustrious people.

The Marmarico waterfall is the highest in Calabria and the southern Apennines, with its 114 meters. The name comes from the dialect term "marmaricu" meaning slow or heavy, as the waterfall gives the impression of being still despite the flow of water. In the municipality of Bivongi, within the Serre regional park, we find a landscape free of contamination, the silent valley of the Stillaro river. Once you arrive in Bivongi, reaching the waterfalls involves a stretch with Jeeps that act as a shuttle (Vincenzo 3283221528) and a further stretch on foot of medium difficulty.

Elected Borgo dei Borghi in 2021, Tropea certainly represents a well-known and sought-after destination in Calabria. Known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear sea, Tropea also contains other less renowned attractions. The Sanctuary of S. Maria dell'Isola, the historic center, the Diocesan Civic Museum are equally worthy reasons to visit this town overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and which, according to legend, sees Hercules as its founder.

Located between the provinces of Cosenza, Catanzaro and Crotone, the natural park is a World Heritage Site. Visiting all of Sila in one day is impossible, but there are some unmissable destinations to visit. In Sila Piccola in the province of CZ, the village of Palumbo, Racise and Buturo offer suggestive walks through the woods in contact with local flora and fauna. In Sila Grande in the province of CS, Camigliatello for snow lovers and Lorica for its enchanting lake. In Tirivolo, the amusement park for adults and children awaits you to spend a pleasant day.

Known as the Venice of the South, Chianalea represents the heart of Scilla. The characteristic of this village among the most beautiful in Italy is the incredible proximity of the houses built in direct contact with the sea. Among the narrow streets you can see fishermen intent on their activities in a fairytale landscape. Fishing is still the foundation of the economy of the village despite it being a popular tourist destination. From Chianalea you can reach the castle of Ruffo in a few minutes on foot, a former military construction then converted into a residence. The gaze turned towards the sea reveals the proximity to Sicily. There are many activities to do, snorkeling, trekking or simply walking through the streets of the village and enjoying the excellent cuisine in one of the many restaurants overlooking the sea.

San Nicola Arcella is located in the province of Cosenza in the renowned Riviera dei Cedri. It is a typical Calabrian seaside village that in recent years has seen an explosive increase in tourism. This fame is due to the breathtaking landscapes given by the numerous caves that overlook the sea. The most famous is the Arcomagno, a sort of arch that divides the bay from the sea, and which is stormed by tourists in every season. But the crystal clear waters and the characteristic cliffs are not the only attraction. In the historic center we can admire the beauty of a village that smells of history, traditions and culture of the past. In the alleys of the village you will have the impression that time has stopped here.