Attractions and Places To See around Reggio Di Calabria - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Reggio Di Calabria include a diverse range of historical sites and natural landscapes at Italy's "toe." The city offers views across the Strait of Messina to Sicily and Mount Etna. Its rich past is evident in ancient Greek and Roman ruins, alongside medieval fortresses and impressive religious buildings. The surrounding area features picturesque coastlines and national parks for outdoor exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Reggio Di Calabria
- The most popular attractions is Scilla, a picturesque fishing village known for its scenic promontory and the Ruffo Castle. It offers views of Sicily and is characterized by its fishing heritage and a beach in the Marina Grande district.
- Another must-see spot is Church of the Most Holy Immaculate Conception, Scilla, a significant religious building. This church is located at the crossroads of Scilla's main districts and features a beautiful modern mosaic.
- Visitors also love Christ the King Shrine, an imposing man-made monument. This memorial offers panoramic views of Messina and the Strait, and houses the third largest bell in Italy.
- Reggio Di Calabria is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and natural features. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, medieval castles, and stunning coastal areas.
- The attractions around Reggio Di Calabria are appreciated by the komoot community, with 55 upvotes and 19 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Christ the King Shrine
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Church of the Most Holy Immaculate Conception, Scilla
Highlight • Religious Site
The mother church of the Santissima Immacolata di Scilla is also called the church "Mesa" or half because it is located at the crossroads of the streets that lead to the three main districts of the country: Marina Grande, Chianalea and San Giorgio. The current building was built on a pre-existing church dedicated to Santa Maria Cattolica and part of the ancient Basilian monastery of San Pancrazio. In the sixteenth century it was badly damaged by earthquakes, so much so that it had to undergo extensive renovations, which also led to an expansion of the structure. The church also suffered the same fate in the eighteenth century, with an earthquake that collapsed the entire central vault, and in 1908, when the rear and the interior of the colonnade on the west side were demolished.
Text / Source: Italia Virtual Tour is a project by Comunicando Leader
italiavirtualtour.it/dettaglio.php?id=95990
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Scilla
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Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani
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Ruffo Castle of Scilla
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Its history dates back to the time of Magna Graecia. She is said to have been created by the tyrant Anaxillas, who died in 476 BC. BC, to protect against pirate attacks. Built as an outpost of the city of Rhegion, the fortress was snatched from the city by Dionysius I of Syracuse and after about 50 years came back under the control of the city of Rhegion under Timoleon.
Also under the Romans it served to defend Reggio. In the Middle Ages it fell under Byzantine control and was used by the Basilians as a monastery dedicated to Saint Pancras. In the 11th century the building came into the possession of the Norman ruler and Duke of Apulia and Calabria Robert Guiskard. In 1255 the complex was expanded on behalf of the Hohenstaufen Manfred of Sicily. In the 13th century it fell to Charles I of the House of Anjou.
Under the Aragonese, during the 15th century, as firearms became more widespread, the medieval castle was adapted and transformed into a Renaissance fortress. In 1469 it changed hands again, falling into the hands of Gutierre De Nava, a Castilian knight of alleged German descent. In 1533 the Ruffos acquired the Renaissance fortress and established their residence there in 1620. At the same time, a dungeon was housed in the basement, which was notorious for its torture. At the beginning of the 18th century it completely lost its military importance. In 1713, during the War of the Spanish Succession, it was occupied by Habsburg troops. After the Peace of Vienna in 1738, it fell to the Bourbon Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.[4] From 1770 to 1772, the first modern fortification work took place.
The Castello Ruffo di Scilla was also affected by the Calabria earthquake in 1783 and as a result the dungeon was closed. After the end of the Parthenopean Republic in 1799, the complex was occupied by Napoleonic troops. At the beginning of the 19th century, the French and English changed hands several times during the coalition wars. After the temporary French occupation in 1806 under General Louis de Partouneaux, the French were able to take possession of the fortress again in February 1808. After the building suffered considerable damage from artillery fire during the previous sieges, renovation work took place between 1811 and 1813, which characterizes the current appearance of the fortress. In particular, after a lightning strike on the powder store in 1812, which severely damaged the building and killed two officers, the original structure of the facility was significantly altered. At the end of the Napoleonic era, little was left of the previous building.
During the “Course of a Thousand” in 1860, the complex was handed over to the volunteers of Giuseppe Garibaldi without resistance. Allegedly, after the handover, Garibaldi himself hoisted the tricolor on the fortress.
During the Messina earthquake in 1908, the older parts of the building that still existed were largely destroyed, so that nothing remains of the Ruffo's former residence.[4] In 1913, a small lighthouse was erected on the northern edge of the ledge, which is still operated by the Italian Navy. Until the Second World War, the fortress was used, among other things, by the Italian coastal artillery. At the end of the 20th century, a youth hostel was housed in the former fortifications. After extensive restoration work, it has since been used for exhibitions and conferences, among other things.
Text/Source: Wikipedia
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castello_Ruffo_di_Scilla
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Popular around Reggio Di Calabria
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Beautiful church
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Fantastically beautiful, very well organized and very well maintained and clean.
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Among the most beautiful places in all of Calabria, Scilla stands on a scenic promontory not far from the Strait of Messina. It is famous for the church of San Rocco, the Ruffo Castle and above all for its seaside hamlet, Chianalea, a splendid fishing village.
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Many Italian churches are dedicated to the Mother of God Mary and thus have a "SANTA MARIA" (sometimes, as here, increased to "SANTISSIMA") in their name. This church in Scilla has the addition "IMMACOLATA", so it is dedicated to the "Immaculate Conception" of the Mother of God. This term, which today may sound a bit theoretical and difficult to understand, is intended to say that the Mother of God was freed from the beginning by the grace of God from the burden of original sin - which otherwise every person carries within themselves. This meant that when the archangel later announced to her in Nazareth that she would give birth to the Son of God, she was willing to answer YES of her own free will. In 1854, Pope Pius IX elevated this article of faith to dogma. The feast for this occasion - and at the same time the patronage of this church here - which in the Catholic liturgy is called the "Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary without Original Sin" is celebrated annually on December 8th.
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Scilla (formerly U Scigghiu in the dialect of Reggio Calabria) is an Italian municipality with 4,501 inhabitants in the metropolis of Reggio Calabria in Calabria. It is a popular tourist resort on a promontory at the northern entrance to the Strait of Messina. Source and further information: https://it.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scilla_(Italia)
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The promontory of Scilla was fortified by the tyrant Anassilla as early as 493 BC. In 842 AD, under Byzantine rule, the Basilian Fathers founded and fortified the monastery of San Pancrazio. In 1282, after the War of the Vespers, Pope Martin IV authorized Charles of Anjou to fortify the castles on this coast. At the end of 1284, the fortress of Scilla fell into the hands of the Aragonese. In 1533, Scilla was bought by Paolo Ruffo, Count of Sinopoli. Source: https://catalogo.beniculturali.it/detail/ArchitecturalOrLandscapeHeritage/1800012068
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The current church building dates from the 1970s, but the church was only completed in the late 1990s, see https://www.calabriaportal.com/scilla/5020-scilla.html#fontana-sirena The church is open during the day and has a beautiful modern mosaic.
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The Sacrario di Cristo Re in Messina is an imposing tomb that was built in 1937 for the remains of those who died in the two world wars. The Baroque architecture was inspired by the Basilica in Superga, designed by Messina architect Filippo Juvarra. The location of the sanctuary offers one of the most beautiful views of the Strait of Messina.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Reggio Calabria?
Reggio Calabria is rich in history. You can visit the medieval Aragonese Castle, explore the impressive Reggio Calabria Cathedral, or discover the ruins of ancient Greek walls and Roman baths along the Lungomare. The National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria also houses significant artifacts, including the famous Riace Bronzes.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in Reggio Calabria?
Yes, families can enjoy several spots. The picturesque village of Scilla offers a beach and charming streets. The Planetarium Pythagoras is a unique cultural site suitable for all ages. Additionally, the Lungomare Falcomatà is perfect for leisurely strolls with children, offering beautiful views and open spaces.
Where can I find the best viewpoints in Reggio Calabria?
For stunning panoramic views, visit the Christ the King Shrine, which offers impressive vistas of Messina and the Strait. The Arena dello Stretto, a modern amphitheater along the promenade, also provides great coastal views. From the Ruffo Castle of Scilla, you can enjoy incomparable views of the sea and the coast.
What natural attractions are there near Reggio Calabria?
The Lungomare Falcomatà, often called 'the most beautiful kilometer in Italy,' offers stunning views across the Strait of Messina. For more extensive natural exploration, Aspromonte National Park, about an hour's drive away, features breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and charming villages. The Costa Viola is known for its spectacular sunsets, and Punta Pellaro is a visually stunning spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Can I go hiking or cycling near Reggio Calabria's attractions?
Absolutely. The region offers various outdoor activities. For hiking, you can find routes like the 'Gambarie Fountain – Vallescura Waterfall loop' in Aspromonte National Park. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy routes such as 'From Reggio Calabria to Scilla along the seafront of the Strait of Messina.' You can find more detailed routes and guides for hiking and cycling around Reggio Calabria.
What cultural experiences does Reggio Calabria offer?
Beyond the archaeological museum, you can visit the Pinacoteca Civica inside the Teatro Cilea for regional art, or the Palazzo della Cultura which showcases local artists and various collections. The Teatro Francesco Cilea itself is a beautiful 18th-century style theater. For a unique insight into local craftsmanship, explore the Ecomuseum of Silk and Rural Traditions.
Are there any interesting day trips from Reggio Calabria?
A popular day trip is to the picturesque fishing village of Scilla, known for its scenic promontory and the Ruffo Castle of Scilla. Another fascinating option is Pentedattilo, a picturesque ghost town nestled in a hand-shaped cliff, offering a unique hiking experience.
What is the main shopping street in Reggio Calabria?
The main pedestrian and shopping street in Reggio Calabria is Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi. It's a bustling area lined with shops, cafes, and historical buildings, perfect for a stroll and some retail therapy.
What is the significance of the Riace Bronzes?
The Riace Bronzes are two magnificent 2,500-year-old Greek statues discovered in the Ionian Sea in 1972. They are considered masterpieces of ancient Greek sculpture and are housed in the National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria, making it a world-class attraction for art and history enthusiasts.
What is the 'most beautiful kilometer in Italy'?
The Lungomare Falcomatà, Reggio Calabria's waterfront promenade, was famously described by Gabriele D'Annunzio as 'the most beautiful kilometer in Italy.' It offers stunning views across the Strait of Messina to Sicily and Mount Etna, lined with botanical palm trees, Art Nouveau buildings, bars, and restaurants.
Are there any unique modern art installations in the city?
Yes, along the Lungomare Falcomatà, you can find several contemporary sculptures by Italian artist Rabarama, including 'Transletterraa' and 'Labyrinthe,' adding a modern artistic touch to the scenic promenade.
What is the Church of the Most Holy Immaculate Conception, Scilla?
The Church of the Most Holy Immaculate Conception, Scilla is a significant religious building located at the crossroads of Scilla's main districts. It features a beautiful modern mosaic and has a long history of rebuilding after earthquakes, making it a notable landmark in the charming seaside town.
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