Attractions and Places To See around Calanna - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Calanna include historical sites, natural formations, and cultural points of interest. Situated between the slopes of Aspromonte and the Strait of Messina, Calanna offers views of the sea and the Sicilian coastline. The area is characterized by ancient fortresses, archaeological findings from the Iron Age, and unique geological features. These elements contribute to a diverse landscape for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Calanna
- The most popular attractions is Church of…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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 …
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Scilla
Highlight • Settlement
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Ruffo Castle of Scilla
Highlight • Castle
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. …
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Sea monster Scylla
Highlight • Monument
A song like you've never heard it before, infinitely beautiful! And suddenly everything happens very quickly: tentacles from the depths! They …
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Palazzo San Giorgio (Reggio Calabria City Hall)
Highlight • Monument
The origins of the city are ancient: it was founded in 734 BC. Founded by the Greeks from Euboea, during the great Greek period it experienced a period …
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Fantastically beautiful, very well organized and very well maintained and clean.
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Beautiful sculpture, great view from the square
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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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Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II is the real name of the square, but all the inhabitants of Reggio know it better as Piazza Italia, because in the center there stands a monument to Italy that has shaped its popular name for 140 years. It is the most important square in Reggio Calabria, the political-administrative heart of the Reggio region. It has a square plan, with the south-eastern side opening onto Corso Garibaldi and overlooked by the most important institutional buildings. In ancient times it was also known as Tocco piccolo. Almost all the buildings that stand in the square house an administration and/or an institution of the city. On the orthogonal lines there are in particular: Palazzo San Giorgio, seat of the Town Hall, Palazzo del Governo, seat of the Prefecture, Palazzo Corrado Alvaro, seat of the Metropolitan City, the Teatro Francesco Cilea and the Palazzo del Banco di Napoli. Source: https://turismo.reggiocal.it/cultura/le-piazze/piazza-italia
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Calanna?
Calanna is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Calanna Castle, a fortress with Byzantine origins that offers insights into the region's strategic past. Additionally, the area features a significant Iron Age Necropolis and a Byzantine Necropolis, indicating long-standing human presence.
Are there any archaeological discoveries in Calanna?
Yes, Calanna has notable archaeological discoveries. The Iron Age Necropolis, discovered in 1953, contains artifacts like pottery, metal utensils, and clothing ornaments. A Byzantine Necropolis also revealed an amulet depicting St. George and a bronze reliquary. Many of these findings are displayed at the Archaeological Museum in the Ronzo district.
What unique natural formations can I see in Calanna?
Calanna is home to the unique Tafoni di Calanna, often referred to as 'Calabria's Cappadocia.' These are colossal sandstone blocks sculpted into column-like shapes by atmospheric particles over thousands of years. They offer a distinctive geological landscape and panoramic views of the Strait of Messina.
Where can I find the best views of the Strait of Messina and Mount Etna?
From its elevated position, Calanna offers expansive views. The Tafoni di Calanna provide a legendary panorama of the Strait of Messina, and on clear days, you can also see the majestic Mount Etna in Sicily.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Calanna?
Yes, several attractions near Calanna are considered family-friendly. These include the Church of the Most Holy Immaculate Conception, Scilla, the charming settlement of Scilla with its fishing village, and the Reggio Calabria Promenade, which offers beaches, cafes, and views.
What outdoor activities can I do near Calanna?
Near Calanna, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. There are numerous opportunities for hiking, running, and cycling. For detailed routes and trails, you can explore the hiking guide around Calanna, the running trails guide, and the cycling guide.
Are there hiking trails available near Calanna?
Absolutely. The area around Calanna, particularly within the Aspromonte National Park, offers a range of hiking trails. Options include moderate routes like 'Gambarie - ring tour' and 'Monte Basilicò from Gambarie,' as well as easier paths such as 'Cascatella Vallescura.' You can find more details and specific routes in the hiking guide around Calanna.
Can I go running or cycling near Calanna's attractions?
Yes, there are several routes for running and cycling. For runners, options include seaside promenade loops from various points like Palasport Pentimele PalaCalafiore or Reggio di Calabria Gallico. Cyclists can enjoy routes with views of the Strait of Messina and the Costa Viola. Explore the running trails guide and the cycling guide around Calanna for more information.
What do visitors appreciate most about the attractions near Calanna?
Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic beauty, historical depth, and unique geological features. The views of the Strait of Messina and Sicily are highly praised, as are the historical significance of sites like Ruffo Castle of Scilla and the charm of the fishing village of Scilla. The Reggio Calabria Promenade is also popular for its amenities and views.
Is there a museum in Calanna where I can see local artifacts?
Yes, the Archaeological Museum, inaugurated in 2017 in the Ronzo district, houses most of the artifacts unearthed during various excavation campaigns in the area. Here you can see pottery, metal utensils, and ornaments from the Iron Age necropolis, as well as objects from later periods found at the castle site.
What is the significance of the name 'Calanna'?
The name 'Calanna' has ancient origins, stemming from the Greek 'Kale-amuna,' which translates to 'nice shelter.' This suggests the site's original military significance and its role as a strategic defensive position.
Are there any attractions related to local legends or mythology?
Yes, near Calanna, you can find a memorial to the legendary Sea monster Scylla. According to Homer's Odyssey, this female monster lived in the Strait of Messina, and the nearby town of Scilla is named after her. The memorial offers a beautiful square with spectacular views.
Most popular attractions around Calanna
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