Cosenza is a very old town of Greek origin and already known during the Punic wars. In fact, the town sided with Hannibal against the Romans. The centre of the town is well preserved, and great historic figures like the German King and Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II helped at the time to restore the town's biggest monuments. Cosenza has a number of old and interesting sights including monasteries and palaces.
From a height of approx. 350 m Catanzaro, the capital of Calabria, commands stunning views over the Musofalo and Fiumarella valleys. In spite of its long history, and evidence of the presence of Robert Guiscard himself, today the town appears relatively modern because of an extensive earthquake in the 18th century. Therefore the Baroque era is richly represented in Catanzaro although the town's roots go right back to the powerful Byzantine Empire.
Reggio Calabria on the southern tip of Calabria dates back to year 700 BC. The town is set by the delightful Messina strait with fabulous views of the island of Sicily. Evidence of a glorious past in the shape of old Greek ruins and remains of Roman baths with fantastic floor mosaics can be found amongst the orange groves and palm trees surrounding the town. The town's national museum is home to several fantastic Greek artifacts and the town's Roman cathedral is also worth a visit.
Crotone occupies a central place in Magna Graecia's history. Today it is a modern industrial and commercial town. But much of it historic centre is still well preserved. The cathedral with Byzantine paintings must rank amongst the top sights. The castle built in 1541 by the Spanish don Pedro from Toledo as a defence against the Saracen attackers is also worth a visit.
Tropea is thought to have been founded by Scipio Africanus himself on his return from conquering Carthage. But the Arabs, Normans and Spaniards have also been in residence here. The town's 4 km long white sandy beach and the undisturbed landscape make Tropea a remarkable place. Especially the old part of town is interesting and atmospheric with its many winding alleyways and passages, Piazza Ercole and several great houses built as homes for the nobility.
Scilla is picture postcard pretty as it nestles on the cliffs above the sea. From the Ruffo castle the fantastic sunset is a wonder to behold as it colours the sea red, and sometimes makes it possible to see the Aeolian islands.
Gerace is set in breathtaking landscape and exudes medieval atmosphere. The town has a number of old churches and houses, small piazzas and pretty streets making it a special treat to visit.
Stilo is of Byzantine origin and according to some is one of the most important towns in Calabria as far as art and history is concerned. The jewel in the crown is Cattolica di Stilo dating back to the Byzantine era. It also has a Norman chapel. The old part of town is a labyrinth of quaint streets. The cathedral with its Roman and Gothic entrance is also fascinating.
Calabria has some small coastal and mountain towns of interest including Montalto Uffugo, Guardia Piemontese, Pizzo, Nicotera, Tiriolo and San Bruno.
