Its been a while since I last wrote, mainly due to my most recent move to the Southernmost tip of Italy...Calabria. Based off of my heritage and cultural regimen, I'm a true Northern-Italian gal to the core (Torino, Verona, Pisa, you name it and I've either resided there or visited, not to mention most of my family comes from the North), yet although this move may seem minuscule...the Southern values, lingo, local characteristics, and basic day-to-day lifestyle, makes this location an entirely new and drastically unusual base for me. I suppose due to the constant Northern influence and the debates of "North vs South" that I had interfaced throughout my life, I've always had a bit of skepticism when the subject of "Southern Italy" was discussed. However, having spent some time living and working in Calabria, I can say without hesitation that this place is strangely remarkable and quite the experience I didn't expect.
Calabria is a region located along the Southwestern coast of Italy, the "toe of the boot" in other words. With a population of nearly 2 million and a climate never under 45 degrees (8 °C), this part of Italy is a beach enthusiast's paradise. Destinations such as Tropea, Reggio di Calabria, Scilla, Cirella, and many more have brought tourists from all over the world to flock here during the summer months for breathtaking landscapes, terrains, beaches, hikes, and did I mention the food?! Southern food is truly the best, no argument there; whether it's the sweets or the pizza, you can never really go wrong in Calabria.
Due to my lack of time and resources here (such as a vehicle), I haven't yet made many immaculate discoveries in Calabria. However, the few adventures that I have had, are worth a look for sure!
1. Scilla
An intriguing mythological fact about this town is the origin of its name; which came from Scylla, the beautiful nymph that was turned into a hideous sea monster by the goddess, Amphitrite. Scylla appeared in Homer's "The Odyssey" as the guard of the Strait of Messina and a challenge for Odysseus. Scilla is a small beach town overlooked by a castle on the coast of Calabria. Scilla is divided into 3 small parts, the Marina (with tourism and a stunning beachfront), San Giorgio (where the main center is located), and Chianalea (the fishermen's area). If you are in need of a delicious, top-notch fish dinner, Scilla has an exceptional variety of sea-food menu's to choose from...whilst watching the beautiful sea during sunset.
2. Palmi
Based off of the name, Palmi, it is expected that this extraordinary piece of land is filled with palm trees...and a landscape that leaves you speechless of course. Palmi is a small commune with a little over 19,000 inhabitants surrounded by terrain and situated amongst the hills. One of the main attractions is upon one of the mountains in fact, known as Monte Sant'Elia, a very renown site with three white crosses overlooking the center and the Coasta Viola. It's prominent beauty and popularity, however, comes from its beaches, such as Rovaglioso; which places you in an almost fantasy-like state of mind, with a panoramic view of the entire coast, crystal clear waters, and natural greenery...by all means, its a sight to see. During the peak season, Tonnara di Palmi has a more populated coastal beach zone with lounges and umbrella's to unwind and enjoy the stunning views.
3. Reggio di Calabria
Calabria isn't quite the region with major cities, however, if you are in search of a more systematic approach with transportation, shopping, municipality, and an overall "city" set-up...Reggio is the way to go. Reggio is a port city with multiple museums, piazza's, castles, stores, restaurants, bars, etc. Although this small city has gone through its sporadic phases of earthquakes throughout time, it still remains a populated and safe city to visit. Directly adjacent to Messina...a walk along the Lungomare is an essential addition to any itinerary in mind. For any interest in theater, a bite to eat, or a nag to shop, Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi is your best bet...especially if you in dire need of a gelato brioscia...yum!
Thanks for reading, tune in for my next post!