Calabria is one of the southern regions of Italy, placed between the Ionian and the Tyrrhenian Sea, forming
the toe of the Italian boot. Calabria is a small region with not much population and an underdeveloped
economy, but at the same time it is one of the oldest Italian regions, with great history due to centuries of
domination of the Greeks, the Romans, the Goths, the Byzantines, the Longobards and the Normans. Only
in 1860, Calabria became a part of Italy.
The economy of the region is mainly based in agriculture (Calabria is the principal producer in Italy of
bergamot oranges, used for tea and perfumes). Part of the industry is developed around construction
and building, due to the presence of vast forests. Important rule in the region's economy is played by the
production and the sale of handicrafts made by individuals and very small family businesses. Tourism,
increasing every year, is also very important in the Calabria's economy and is the aim behind some of the
most recent technological improvements.
Calabria has remarkable tourist potential. The charming scenery of Calabria is varied: high mountains
covered by snow, luxuriant forests, white sand beaches, azure coastlines and crystal clear waters. And also,
the region has a background of magnificent rustic villas and extraordinary Greek ruins. Those attracted by
the Greek history will find Calabria a great holiday spot: due to its Greek heritage, the area is full of Greek
ruins, even underwater or near the coasts.
Calabria is not yet a mass tourism destination: the natural beauty of the area has not been contaminated
by hotel chains and fast food. A holiday in Calabria offers you marvellously shining mountains, clear and
beautiful coasts, historic places, genuine local food; and authentic people living the Italian way. You can
enjoy all what this region has to propose renting a holiday home or apartment in one of the stunning
locations of Calabria.
The coastline is the main attraction of Calabria, as well as the mountains, such as Aspromonte and La Sila,
with its national park and lakes. Other interesting destinations in Calabria include:
Reggio Calabria is the biggest and oldest city in Calabria, famous for its panoramic seaside with
botanical garden, beautiful beaches, the old Aragonian Castle and the great National Museum of
Magna Graecia (where the famous statues "Bronzi di Riace" are conserved).
Catanzaro is situated at the centre of the thinnest point of Italy, between the Tyrrhenian and Ionian
Sea. The main sights are Catanzaro Bridge (Viaduct Morandi-Bisantis), the Cathedral, the castle, the
boulevard on the Ionian Sea, the park of biodiversity and the archaeological park.
Cosenza is famous for its cultural institutions, the beautiful old district, the Cathedral and the
Hohenstaufen Castle.
Scilla, on the Tyrrhenian Sea, is called the "pearl" of the "Violet Coast" and was the location of
some of Homer's tales.
Tropea, located on the Tyrrhenian Sea coast, is featured by a spectacular seaside beach and the
Santa Maria dell'Isola sanctuary.
Gerace, situated near Locri, is a marvellous medieval city with a Norman castle and an antique
cathedral.
Pizzo is famous for its ice cream called "Tartufo". Interesting spots to see in Pizzo are Piazza
Repubblica and the Aragonian castle, where Murat was murdered.
Paola is the birthplace of St. Francis of Paola, patron of Calabria and Italian sailors. Here is located
the old Franciscan sanctuary, built during the last hundred years of the Middle Ages.
Sybaris, on the Ionian Sea, is a charming village located near the excavation of ancient Sybaris, a
Greek colony of the 7th century BC.
Soverato, also on the Ionian Sea, is called the "Pearl" of the Ionian Sea and is especially famous for
its beaches, walkway and lively nightlife.
The tourists, visiting Calabria, might also enjoy one of the many festivals held in Calabria such as:
In January, the Orange festival in Corigliano Calabro.
The Easter Procession each Good Friday in Catanzaro and Caccuri.
In May, the crucifixion parade in Cutro.
In July, the Madonna del Carmine Festival in Laureana di Borello; the Festival delle Invasioni in
Cosenza; the Festival of the Two Seas in Altomonte.
In August, the Maritime Procession of the Madonna in Lido di Palmi; the festival for the Madonna
della Grotta in Paria a Mare.
In September, the Calabrian Folklore festival in Villagio Mancuso; and the eggplant festival in
Soverato Superiore.
In October, the mushroom festival in Silano.
Right now Calabria is a perfect holiday spot for the nature lovers, scuba divers, sun bathers, shoppers, and
also history experts.
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