Calabria
Art, History & Archaeology Sites & Museums
The province of Calabria makes up the tip or the foot of the ‘boot’, at the very south of Italy. This is a mountainous region, with three distinct mountain ranges, each with their own distinct flora and fauna. The Pollino National Park is the largest natural park in Italy, with both archaeological attractions and areas of natural beauty. Calabria has a number of important prehistoric sites, in particular from the Iron Age. The ancient Greeks settled here, making this part of Magna Grecia. Following the Romans, the Byzantines and Normans, then the Angevins and Aragons when this area was part of the Kingdom of Naples. The Provinces in Calabria are: Catanzaro, Cosenza, Crotone, Reggio di Calabria and Vibo Valentia.
Archaeology & History Sites in Calabria
Aragonese Castle of Castella
This is undoubtedly one of the most evocative castles in Calabria. It is located on a small strip of land, surrounded by the waters of the Ionian Sea, in the hamlet of Le Castelle in the municipality of Isola Capo Rizzuto. The origins of the area where the fortress stands date back to the Magna Graecia period, but there are numerous traces of successive populations. In Roman times, Hannibal, who was preparing his retreat from Italy, took refuge here. At the same time, traces remain of the Byzantine, Norman, Swabian, Angevin and Aragonese phases. Its primary function was always defensive, and rulers never used it as a residence. Although some castle areas cannot be visited, as they are still being restored, the visit is free of charge and offers a splendid panorama.
