|
Calabria, the southernmost province of Italy is surrounded by the crystalline waters of three seas, the Mediterranean, Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas. Across the Ionian sea lies Sicily, and beyond it the east coast of Tunisia on the African mainland, easily accessible by ferry. To the east lies Greece and the Middle East; to the west the Mediterranean stretches from the Straits of Messina to the Straits of Gibraltar. In the north of the region lies the stunning high mountain region, with an alpine landscape with excellent skiing, rich in forests and lakes. Around it are over 800 kilometers of the richest and most scenic coastlines that Italy possesses. There are many historical sites and temples, Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Norman, and Bourbon palazzos dot the region.
Miles and miles of white sandy beaches and rocky coves and the crystal clear and clean waters of the Mediterranean Sea. A backdrop of stunning mountains, hiding quaint picturesque villages, ancient ruins, luxurious spas and ski lodges among their wooded lower slopes. A perfect climate all year round in a region yet unspoilt by chainstores and mass tourism. This is the real Italian Riviera.
Recorded history begins with the rise of the Greek civilisation. Southern Italy lies on the main seaways between three continents, Europe, Africa and Asia, and many cultures and civilisations have contended for control of this small region. The inland highlands were remote in older times , and this remoteness created a regional character and culture still quite separate and unique in Italy, where Greek and Byzantine dances are still celebrated during the many festivals. Modern transport such as the international airport, highways and fast ferries, are now making the region easily accessible for the first time.
In 1780, John Baptist Fortis wrote about the province of Reggio Calabria:
“ The coastal area of Reggio is no doubt the most beautiful and mesmerizing sight in Italy. The area abounds with gardens planted with all kinds of citrus trees. The heavenly fragrance that emanates from their blossoms in the early evening, the harmony of the farmhouses, the friendliness and the amiability of the local people, everything make this country superior to any other country that I have known and visited so far”
Modern Calabria still has this reputation for harmony and welcome. The Calabresi are friendly and easygoing and the pace of life is slower and steadier, without the constant noise and trouble of big cities. It is a place of contrasts, with high mountain villages seemingly built on the sides of mountains in the interior to red roofed villas on the coast, clustered around an ancient castle or church.
The modern world has arrived gently, with modern roads, good amenities and growing tourism and interest in the locality, but it manages to maintain its unique character and charm |
