Calabria is a land of cultural encounters. Fortified towns and small medieval villages are set like pearls in the hills, peering out behind the magnificent coastline. We invite you to read our article The Prettiest Calabrian villages and little towns.
Bova
Capital of Greek Calabria and one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, Bova preserves a very ancient history. Its origins are linked to a legendary Greek queen, Oichista. She engraved the imprint of her foot on the highest point of the fortress above the village. The ancient origins of Bova are testified by the numerous archaeological finds found near the Norman Castle dating back to the Neolithic period. However, the first historically documented evidence of the existence of Bova dates back to the first years of the second millennium.
A unique characteristic of Bova is the persistence of the Greek language (a form of dialect that has remarkable similarities with the dialects of Crete and Cyprus). Together with the other villages of the Bovesìa, a fact makes these places’ heritages of humanity worthy of being protected.
Gerace
Like many villages in Calabria, Gerace is rich in history and legends. Firstly, its name derives from the Greek for sparrow hawk, the protagonist of the village’s founding myth. Furthermore, this place of significant religious and cultural interest is nicknamed the Gerusalemme dello Ionio (Jerusalem of the Ionian Sea), as it was once home to 100 churches (only 17 have survived).
We recommend visiting Basilica Concattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta (Co-Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption), featuring austere Norman architectural features, and Piazza del Tocco, bordered by noble palaces. For a breathtaking view that reaches the Ionian Sea, head to Le Bombarde Belvedere.
And ultimately, we inform you that you can find out more in our article about Gerace.
Morano Calabro
It is a small Parco Nazionale del Pollino (Pollino National Park) gem. Its distinctive appearance has earned it the nickname borgo-presepe (nativity town). The view from afar is jaw-dropping: tiny stone houses rub shoulders on the slopes of the hill, overshadowed by the ruins of Castello Normanno-Svevo (Norman-Swabian Castle).
Santa Severina
It is an enchanting town framed by impassible walls. In the heart of the historical center, the gorgeous Piazza Campo is home to Concattedrale di Sant’Anastasia (Co-cathedral of St. Anastasia) and the Battistero Bizantino (Byzantine Baptistery), decorated with 10th–12th-century frescoes.
Castello di Santa Severina is a beautifully preserved Norman fortress at the far end of the Piazza. In the end, especially if you are hungry or thirsty, sit in one of the local pubs or trattorias and order some delicious Italian pasta. That’ll undoubtedly make your day.
Rocca Imperiale
It is a timeless village in the Pollino National Park. Furthermore, it’s home to many noteworthy attractions. There are also countless exhibitions, including mummies, fossils, and even a waxwork museum featuring life-like reproductions of famous people.
Another must-see spot is Castello Svevo (Swabian Castle), a massive structure commissioned by Emperor Frederick II (to whom the town owes its name) in the 13th century. Ultimately, the sea views are unique from the top of the eight crenelated towers.
Tropea
The village of Tropea looks like a rock balcony overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Furthermore, the village’s historic center is of great interest, consisting of noble palaces of the nineteenth century located on the cliff overlooking the sea. Most importantly, the town’s main product is the well-known red onion of Tropea, characterized by a sweeter flavor than the white one. So, you should try one!
Chianalea
It is a small fishing village that preserves the most authentic tradition of Calabria. Nowadays, it forms a part of Scilla municipality, another splendid town.
Firstly, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea’s turquoise waters. What makes it even more fascinating.
Moreover, its alleys descend vertically towards the sea and, for this reason, remind us of the canals. Hence the name Chianalea.
Most importantly, please try some local delicacies like swordfish, for instance. We also recommend you try macaroni with swordfish and grilled fish sauce. Simply yummy.
Ultimately, Chianalea is famous for its comfy atmosphere with an ancient flavor. Also, while preserving on its territory architectural and natural beauties of extreme beauty, Chianalea does not suffer from the chaos typical of maritime tourist resorts. For this reason, staying in one of the accommodation facilities of the village will allow fans of the sea and locations with an ancient charm to living a unique experience.
The conclusion of The prettiest Calabrian villages and little towns article
Villages of Calabria are for travelers who want to experience an authentic Southern Italy vibe. Churches and castles, museums and culinary specialties: all this wait for you at the toe of the boot.
Now it is your turn. What do you think? have you already been to Calabria?
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Featured photo: ©milla1974
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