Reggio Calabria, also known simply as Reggio, is a city in the far south of the Italian peninsula at the tip of Italy's boot. It is the capital of the province of Reggio Calabria and one of the most important cities in Calabria. Historically, the city has an eventful past with Greek, Roman and Byzantine influences. Today, Reggio Calabria is known for its museums, archaeological sites and picturesque coastline.
Reggio Calabria is located on the western shore of the Strait of Messina, opposite the island of Sicily. It is not only the largest city in Calabria, but also the urban and administrative center of the region. The city offers panoramic views of the mountains of Sicily and the Ionian Sea.
The origins of Reggio Calabria date back to ancient times. The city was founded by the Greeks as Rhegion in the 8th century BC. It was an important center of Magna Graecia, the areas colonized by the Greeks in southern Italy. In the centuries that followed, the city fell successively to the Romans, the Byzantines and various medieval rulers. Over the centuries, the city was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt by natural disasters such as earthquakes and wars.
Places of interest
- The National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria: The museum houses one of the most important collections of ancient Greek art in Italy, including the famous bronze statues of Riace, two outstanding examples of Greek bronze sculpture from the 5th century BC.
- The Cathedral of Reggio Calabria: an impressive religious building that has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. The current structure dates from the early 20th century, after a severe earthquake in 1908 destroyed the previous cathedral.
- The Lungomare promenade: This beautiful promenade offers a breathtaking view of the Strait of Messina and Sicily. It is often described as one of the most beautiful promenades in Italy.
- The castles of Reggio: Over the centuries, numerous castles and fortresses have been built in and around Reggio. The most famous is the Aragonese Castle, which was built in the 15th century on the ruins of an older Byzantine fortress.
In addition to these main attractions, Reggio Calabria offers a variety of churches, squares, gardens and historic buildings that reflect the city's rich history and culture.