Attractions and Places To See around Motta Santa Lucia - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Motta Santa Lucia include historical sites and natural landscapes. This village, situated at 590 meters above sea level in the Savuto Valley on the slopes of Sila Piccola, offers varied terrain for exploration. Known as the "City of Bread" and "City of Wine," it features a historic center with traditional architecture and panoramic views. The surrounding region provides extensive forests, hills, and streams.
Best attractions and places to see around Motta Santa Lucia
…Last updated: May 3, 2026
Norman–Swabian Castle of Nicastro
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Rifugio Monte Reventino
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Tavolaria Bridge
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Abbey of Santa Maria di Corazzo
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Gravel road along the Savuto River
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Tips from the Community
Immersed in nature and the silence of the woods
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Almost flat gravel dirt road, very fast and fun.
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The abbey of Santa Maria di Corazzo, among the hills of Castagna, emerges as an ancient fragment of history and spirituality. Founded by the Benedictines in the 11th century and later rebuilt by the Cistercians in the 12th century, this sacred place has withstood the tests of time. However, the signs of the earthquakes of 1638 and 1783 have left its ruins as evidence of a glorious past. Despite being stripped of its works of art, it continues to exert an evocative charm, offering visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Calabrian history.
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Poorly maintained but still looks old
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The "Tavolaria" bridge about 1500 meters from Cannavina was built in the Spanish period in 1592 with a single arch in sun-baked bricks while the shoulders were built entirely with local stone and lime; the left shoulder rests on a very characteristic rock spur. It connected, via mule tracks, the lands to the left of the river with those exposed to the east, and was important for the trade of agricultural and sheep-farming products which were brought to the markets of Rogliano. But, in addition to its rough and primitive architectural beauty, it fascinates us with its history and the legend linked to this area from which it takes its name: Tavolaria. King Oenotrio, finding himself traveling up the Savuto valley, encountered much resistance from his enemies in the area. To defeat them, he worked with cunning by asking for a truce and inviting them to a lavish dinner and, after getting them drunk, he killed them all. The Cannavina locality takes its name from the Cannavino stream, a tributary of the Savuto river, and is one of the refreshment places of the Rogliano people characterized by a waterfall which at the base forms a basin of water, the so-called "vullu" in the local dialect. Cannavino/a could mean "guzzling wine" precisely because of the coolness and beauty of the place which invites the typical conviviality of the people of the valley.
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A wild and fantastic stretch of dirt road that runs along the Savuto River, right next to the busy highway. It turns into a muddy trail during the winter and rainy months, so come prepared.
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The castle is not particularly maintained and cared for but also for this reason it retains a great charm.
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The Norman-Swabian Castle of Nicastro, an ancient medieval fortress built by the Byzantines or Normans, dominates the historic district of San Teodoro in Lamezia Terme. Despite the damage caused by the earthquake of 1638, the castle retains the traces of four towers, bastions and a wall. Its history is linked to the tragic imprisonment of Henry VII, the rebellious son of Frederick II. Today, it offers a fascinating insight into Calabria's medieval history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in and around Motta Santa Lucia?
Motta Santa Lucia and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the ancient Norman–Swabian Castle of Nicastro, an ancient medieval fortress with traces of towers and bastions. Another significant historical site is the Abbey of Santa Maria di Corazzo, an 11th-century foundation with evocative ruins. Within Motta Santa Lucia itself, explore the historic center with its picturesque Portali and charming Scorci del Borgo, along with historical churches like the Chiesa di Maria SS. delle Grazie.
Are there opportunities for hiking or cycling around Motta Santa Lucia?
Yes, the region offers various outdoor activities. Motta Santa Lucia is situated on the slopes of Sila Piccola, an area known for its extensive forests, hills, and streams. For hiking, you can explore routes like the Monte Reventino Loop or the Misty Forest Road loop. Mountain biking enthusiasts can find numerous paths in Parco Bombarda, which is near Monte Mancuso. You can find more details on these and other routes in the hiking guide, road cycling guide, and MTB trails guide for the area.
What natural attractions are there near Motta Santa Lucia?
The area around Motta Santa Lucia boasts significant natural beauty. Its elevated position provides scenic panoramic views of the surrounding Savuto Valley and the Sila Piccola slopes. The region features extensive forests, hills, and streams, ideal for nature walks. For a dedicated natural oasis, visit Parco Bombarda, which offers numerous paths and is located near Monte Mancuso. The broader National Park Sila is also highly recommended for its diverse flora and fauna.
What is the best time of year to visit Motta Santa Lucia for outdoor activities?
Given its varied terrain and location on the slopes of Sila Piccola, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Temperatures are milder, and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Summer can be warm, especially at lower elevations, while winter may bring colder temperatures and potential snow in higher areas of the Sila Piccola.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the area?
Yes, several attractions cater to families. The Angevin Castle of Savuto, recently restored and hosting events, is considered family-friendly. Additionally, natural areas like Parco Bombarda offer paths suitable for various activity levels, making them enjoyable for families looking to spend time outdoors.
What is Motta Santa Lucia known for?
Motta Santa Lucia is known as the "City of Bread" (Città del Pane) and "City of Wine" (Città del Vino), reflecting its agricultural heritage. It's also recognized for its charming historic center, traditional rural life, and its panoramic location on the slopes of Sila Piccola, offering beautiful views and access to natural landscapes.
Beyond the main castles, are there other unique historical places to visit?
Yes, beyond the prominent castles, you can discover the Tavolaria Bridge, a Spanish-era bridge built in 1592 with a single arch of sun-baked bricks. It's known for its architectural beauty and the local legend associated with its name. Another interesting site is the Lanificio Leo - Museo d'Impresa, the oldest textile factory in Calabria, which functions as a company-museum showcasing industrial heritage.
Can I find viewpoints with scenic panoramic views?
Absolutely. Due to its elevated position at 590 meters above sea level, Motta Santa Lucia itself offers scenic panoramic views of the surrounding Savuto Valley and the Sila Piccola. Many of the trails and higher points in the nearby natural areas also provide stunning vistas of the Calabrian landscape.
What are some cultural landmarks within Motta Santa Lucia village?
Within the village, you can visit several historical churches, including the Mother Church, Chiesa di Maria SS. delle Grazie, and the Chiesa di Santa Lucia. Other landmarks include the Monumento ai Caduti per la Patria (Monument to the Fallen for the Homeland), the Monumento alla Vergine Maria (Monument to the Virgin Mary), and the Fontana dell'Unità d'Italia (Fountain of Italian Unity).
Are there any ruined structures or ancient fortifications to explore?
Yes, the region features several impressive ruined structures. The Norman–Swabian Castle of Nicastro, though damaged by an earthquake, still retains traces of its towers and walls. The Abbey of Santa Maria di Corazzo stands in evocative ruins, offering a glimpse into its glorious past. Further afield, the 15th-century Torre San Caterina Diroccato (Ruined Tower of Santa Caterina) provides dominant views of Lake Maricello.
What kind of terrain can I expect on walks and hikes around Motta Santa Lucia?
The terrain around Motta Santa Lucia is varied, ranging from 169 to 1351 meters in elevation. You can expect paths through extensive forests, rolling hills, and along streams in the Sila Piccola area. Some routes, particularly those leading to higher points like Monte Mancuso, may involve challenging climbs, while others offer more moderate walks through the valleys and historic areas.
Most popular attractions around Motta Santa Lucia
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