Attractions and Places To See around Campo Calabro - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Campo Calabro offer a diverse range of experiences. Situated in the province of Reggio Calabria, the area benefits from its location between the Strait of Messina and the Tyrrhenian foothills of the Aspromonte National Park. This strategic position provides a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural points of interest. Visitors can explore ancient forts, significant religious buildings, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Campo Calabro
- The most popular attractions is Church of the Most Holy Immaculate Conception, Scilla, a religious building located at the crossroads of Scilla's main districts. The current building dates from the 1970s and features a modern mosaic.
- Another must-see spot is Scilla, a settlement known for its scenic promontory and fishing village, Chianalea. This town offers views of nearby Sicily and is characterized by its fishing heritage and picturesque setting.
- Visitors also love Christ the King Shrine, an imposing tomb built in 1937 in Messina. This man-made monument offers one of the most beautiful views of the Strait of Messina and houses the third largest bell in Italy.
- Campo Calabro is known for historical sites, religious buildings, and natural viewpoints. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient fortifications to picturesque coastal towns.
- The attractions around Campo Calabro are appreciated by the komoot community, with 55 upvotes and 19 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Christ the King Shrine
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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 the streets that lead to the three main districts of the country: Marina Grande, Chianalea and San Giorgio. The current building was built on a pre-existing church dedicated to Santa Maria Cattolica and part of the ancient Basilian monastery of San Pancrazio. In the sixteenth century it was badly damaged by earthquakes, so much so that it had to undergo extensive renovations, which also led to an expansion of the structure. The church also suffered the same fate in the eighteenth century, with an earthquake that collapsed the entire central vault, and in 1908, when the rear and the interior of the colonnade on the west side were demolished.
Text / Source: Italia Virtual Tour is a project by Comunicando Leader
italiavirtualtour.it/dettaglio.php?id=95990
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Scilla
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Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani
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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. BC, to protect against pirate attacks. Built as an outpost of the city of Rhegion, the fortress was snatched from the city by Dionysius I of Syracuse and after about 50 years came back under the control of the city of Rhegion under Timoleon.
Also under the Romans it served to defend Reggio. In the Middle Ages it fell under Byzantine control and was used by the Basilians as a monastery dedicated to Saint Pancras. In the 11th century the building came into the possession of the Norman ruler and Duke of Apulia and Calabria Robert Guiskard. In 1255 the complex was expanded on behalf of the Hohenstaufen Manfred of Sicily. In the 13th century it fell to Charles I of the House of Anjou.
Under the Aragonese, during the 15th century, as firearms became more widespread, the medieval castle was adapted and transformed into a Renaissance fortress. In 1469 it changed hands again, falling into the hands of Gutierre De Nava, a Castilian knight of alleged German descent. In 1533 the Ruffos acquired the Renaissance fortress and established their residence there in 1620. At the same time, a dungeon was housed in the basement, which was notorious for its torture. At the beginning of the 18th century it completely lost its military importance. In 1713, during the War of the Spanish Succession, it was occupied by Habsburg troops. After the Peace of Vienna in 1738, it fell to the Bourbon Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.[4] From 1770 to 1772, the first modern fortification work took place.
The Castello Ruffo di Scilla was also affected by the Calabria earthquake in 1783 and as a result the dungeon was closed. After the end of the Parthenopean Republic in 1799, the complex was occupied by Napoleonic troops. At the beginning of the 19th century, the French and English changed hands several times during the coalition wars. After the temporary French occupation in 1806 under General Louis de Partouneaux, the French were able to take possession of the fortress again in February 1808. After the building suffered considerable damage from artillery fire during the previous sieges, renovation work took place between 1811 and 1813, which characterizes the current appearance of the fortress. In particular, after a lightning strike on the powder store in 1812, which severely damaged the building and killed two officers, the original structure of the facility was significantly altered. At the end of the Napoleonic era, little was left of the previous building.
During the “Course of a Thousand” in 1860, the complex was handed over to the volunteers of Giuseppe Garibaldi without resistance. Allegedly, after the handover, Garibaldi himself hoisted the tricolor on the fortress.
During the Messina earthquake in 1908, the older parts of the building that still existed were largely destroyed, so that nothing remains of the Ruffo's former residence.[4] In 1913, a small lighthouse was erected on the northern edge of the ledge, which is still operated by the Italian Navy. Until the Second World War, the fortress was used, among other things, by the Italian coastal artillery. At the end of the 20th century, a youth hostel was housed in the former fortifications. After extensive restoration work, it has since been used for exhibitions and conferences, among other things.
Text/Source: Wikipedia
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castello_Ruffo_di_Scilla
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful church
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Fantastically beautiful, very well organized and very well maintained and clean.
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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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The Sacrario di Cristo Re in Messina is an imposing tomb that was built in 1937 for the remains of those who died in the two world wars. The Baroque architecture was inspired by the Basilica in Superga, designed by Messina architect Filippo Juvarra. The location of the sanctuary offers one of the most beautiful views of the Strait of Messina.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Campo Calabro?
Campo Calabro is rich in history, featuring three historical forts integral to the defense of the Strait of Messina: Fort Batteria Siacci, Fort Poggio Pignatelli, and Fort Matiniti Inferiore. These late 19th-century coastal batteries are now open to visitors. You can also visit the Ruffo Castle of Scilla, which has a history dating back to Magna Graecia and offers insights into various historical periods.
Are there any significant religious sites in the area?
Yes, the region offers several notable religious sites. In Campo Calabro itself, you'll find the Church of Santa Maria della Maddalena. Nearby, in Scilla, is the Church of the Most Holy Immaculate Conception, known for its modern mosaic. In Messina, the imposing Christ the King Shrine is a significant memorial with Baroque architecture, and the Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani stands as an example of Norman architecture.
Where can I find panoramic views of the Strait of Messina?
Campo Calabro's elevated position naturally offers impressive views of the Strait of Messina. For a particularly stunning vista, visit the Christ the King Shrine in Messina, which provides one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Strait. The town of Scilla, with its scenic promontory, also offers excellent viewpoints towards Sicily.
What natural attractions are close to Campo Calabro?
Campo Calabro is located near the Tyrrhenian foothills of the Aspromonte National Park, a UNESCO Global Geopark. This park is renowned for its diverse plant and animal species, offering impressive natural landscapes including mountains, forests, waterfalls, and canyons. The area also provides views of the Strait of Messina and the picturesque Costa Viola.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in the Campo Calabro area?
Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. The charming fishing village of Scilla, with its beach and castle, is a great option. Religious sites like the Church of the Most Holy Immaculate Conception and the Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani are also considered family-friendly. Exploring the historical forts around Campo Calabro can also be an engaging activity for all ages.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The region around Campo Calabro is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for running, cycling, and road cycling. For running, explore routes like the 'Faro di Scilla loop' or the 'Punta Pezzo Lighthouse – Lungomare Fata Morgana local Port loop'. Cyclists can enjoy tours such as the 'Reggio Calabria Promenade – Cathedral of Reggio Calabria loop' or scenic rides with views of the Strait of Messina and Costa Viola. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for Running Trails around Campo Calabro, Cycling around Campo Calabro, and Road Cycling Routes around Campo Calabro.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Campo Calabro?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views, especially from the Christ the King Shrine over the Strait of Messina. The picturesque charm of Scilla, with its fishing village and castle, is also highly rated. Many enjoy the historical depth of sites like the Ruffo Castle and the unique architecture of the local churches.
Are there any UNESCO sites or significant natural parks nearby?
Yes, Campo Calabro is situated near the Aspromonte National Park, which is recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark. This park offers diverse ecosystems and unique climatic conditions, making it a significant natural heritage site. For more information on UNESCO sites in Calabria, you can visit italia.it.
What is the best time of year to visit Campo Calabro for outdoor activities?
The region benefits from a Mediterranean climate. Spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) generally offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, avoiding the peak heat of summer. These periods are also ideal for enjoying the natural landscapes and historical sites without large crowds.
Can I find museums or cultural centers in Campo Calabro?
Within Campo Calabro, you can visit the House-Museum of Lieutenant Galimi, dedicated to a local World War I hero. The 'Ranieri' Municipal Library also serves as a cultural point of interest. Additionally, the old coastal batteries (forts) now host events like the 'Biennale dello Stretto', blending history with contemporary culture.
Are there any notable towns or cities to visit near Campo Calabro?
Absolutely. The scenic town of Scilla, famous for its fishing village Chianalea and Ruffo Castle, is a must-visit. The city of Messina, easily accessible, offers landmarks like the Christ the King Shrine, Messina Cathedral, and Fontana di Nettuno. Further south, Reggio Calabria is home to the significant Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Reggio Calabria.
What kind of historical significance do the forts around Campo Calabro hold?
The forts around Campo Calabro, including Batteria Siacci, Poggio Pignatelli, and Matiniti Inferiore, were built in the late 19th century as crucial coastal batteries. Their strategic location made them integral to the defense system of the territories of Reggio Calabria and Messina, reflecting the region's long history as a significant lookout point from the Roman era onwards.
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