Attractions and Places To See around Cicala - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cicala include a blend of historical, cultural, and natural features within the Catanzaro hinterland of Calabria, Italy. The area is characterized by its dense chestnut forests and proximity to the Sila National Park, offering diverse landscapes. Visitors can explore ancient churches, unique architecture, and significant natural landmarks. This region provides a variety of experiences for those interested in history, culture, and the outdoors.
Best attractions and places to see around Cicala
- The most popular attractions is Taverna, a settlement that is a small Italian town in the province of Catanzaro in Calabria. It is the birthplace of the famous seventeenth-century painter Mattia Preti, whose numerous works it houses in the churches and the civic museum.
- Another must-see spot is Villaggio Mancuso, a settlement that appears almost fairytale-like. This unique village was founded in the 1930s and was once a popular destination for wealthier tourists, featuring the Grande Albergo delle Fate.
- Visitors also love Tiriolo, a charming city in the province of Catanzaro. It features noble palaces, churches, castle ruins, and a Costume Museum, and is known as the "place between two seas" due to its elevated position offering views of both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas.
- Cicala is known for its historical sites, natural features, and cultural landmarks. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches and Art Nouveau palaces to vast chestnut forests and parts of the Sila National Park.
- The attractions around Cicala are appreciated by the komoot community, with 30 upvotes and 16 photos shared.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Taverna
Highlight • Settlement
If you are crossing the Calabria Region along its "Parchi Calabria" cycle route I recommend a short stop here.
A charging station for electric bicycles has been positioned in the center of the village, here you will also find some tools for maintaining your bike.
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Tiriolo
Highlight • Settlement
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Villaggio Mancuso
Highlight • Settlement
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Lago di Passante
Highlight • Lake
It is part of the Sila Natural Park.
Until a few years ago it housed numerous fish species, now somewhat disappeared following the emptying of the dam in 2011
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Tips from the Community
Tiriolo is a charming village in Calabria, southern Italy, known as the "place between two seas." It is picturesquely situated on a hill overlooking the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas. Tiriolo boasts ancient roots, a rich history, traditional craftsmanship, and a welcoming, authentic atmosphere.
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One of the most beautiful and little-frequented lakes, the path that surrounds it is very beautiful and easy.
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One of the less touristy lakes of the Sila and therefore one of the quietest.
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This fairy-tale village was founded in the 1930s and was an excellent tourist destination in the 1950s and 1960s. The Grande Albergo delle Fate was a luxury accommodation facility.
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Tiriolo is the land of two seas: from the top of the town, from the Castle Park, you can clearly see the boundary of the Calabrian emerged lands that winds between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas. A unique emotion! But Tiriolo is also a center rich in history and traditions where some of the best Calabrian artisans live: potters like Corrado Rotundo, weavers like Mirella Leone and luthiers like Tommaso Leone. The Regional Costume Museum and the Antiquarium are very interesting, as well as the magnificent historical centre.
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Not far from Lake Passante is the MABOS, the Museum of Contemporary Art in the Bosco della Sila which is absolutely recommended to visit.
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A ring of about 23 km which reaches a maximum altitude of 1306 m and a minimum of 1112. Difficulty level: intermediate.
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From this point of the Ciclovia dei Parchi you can deviate in the direction of Lake Passante which offers a magnificent itinerary, surrounded by giant ferns and grazing cows
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I explore in and around Cicala?
Cicala's historic center features the significant Church of San Giacomo, known for its artworks and annual procession, and several splendid Art Nouveau noble palaces. Nearby, you can visit the Civic Museum of Taverna, located about 8 km away, which showcases contemporary art from Calabria. Another notable site is the Santuario della Madonna di Termine in Pentone, a 13th-century sanctuary with panoramic views and intricate artwork.
Are there any unique villages or settlements to visit near Cicala?
Yes, you can explore Villaggio Mancuso, a unique village founded in the 1930s that appears almost fairytale-like. It was once a popular destination for affluent tourists. Additionally, the charming city of Tiriolo, known for its noble palaces, churches, and castle ruins, offers views of both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas.
What natural attractions are there around Cicala?
Cicala is surrounded by dense chestnut forests, which are particularly beautiful in autumn. The village is also situated near the vast Sila National Park, an area of enchanting forests, pristine lakes, and diverse landscapes. Within the park, you can find Lago di Passante, an artificial lake offering opportunities for walks and cycling.
What outdoor activities can I do near Cicala?
The area around Cicala is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy various cycling routes, including touring, road cycling, and mountain biking. For example, there's a challenging MTB route called the Lago di Passante, Tirivolo, and Villaggio Mancuso Loop. For general cycling, explore options like the Cycling around Cicala guide, which includes routes like 'From Marcellinara to Taverna through the Pentone pass'.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities in the Cicala area?
Many attractions around Cicala are suitable for families. Taverna, Tiriolo, and Villaggio Mancuso are all considered family-friendly settlements with historical and cultural interest. Additionally, Lago di Passante in Sila National Park offers easy walks and a serene environment for families to enjoy nature.
What is the best time of year to visit Cicala?
Cicala is beautiful throughout the year, but the autumn months are particularly special due to the vibrant chestnut forests. The village celebrates its local produce with an annual Chestnut Festival held from September 5th to 8th, making this an excellent time to experience local culture and natural beauty.
Can I find hiking trails near Cicala, especially in Sila Piccola?
Yes, Cicala is an excellent base for hiking, especially with its proximity to the Sila National Park. While specific hiking trails are not detailed in the provided data, the park offers numerous opportunities for walks and treks amidst its enchanting forests and diverse landscapes. The Loop around Lake Passante is an intermediate trail that takes you through giant ferns and grazing areas.
What is special about the town of Tiriolo?
Tiriolo is a charming city known as the 'place between two seas' because its elevated position offers stunning views of both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas. It boasts noble palaces, churches, castle ruins, and a Regional Costume Museum and Antiquarium. Tiriolo is also recognized for its traditional craftsmanship, including potters, weavers, and luthiers.
Are there any industrial heritage sites or museums nearby?
Yes, about 12 km from Cicala in Soveria Mannelli, you can visit Lanificio Leo. This is Calabria's oldest textile factory, dating back to 1873, and it operates as a company-museum, offering insights into the region's industrial heritage and design.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Cicala?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical and natural beauty. The rich history of towns like Taverna, the fairytale-like charm of Villaggio Mancuso, and the panoramic views from Tiriolo are highly rated. The natural landscapes, especially the chestnut forests and the serene Lago di Passante within Sila National Park, are also significant draws.
Can I find accommodation or dining options in Cicala?
While specific establishments are not listed, Cicala is a charming village, and the surrounding region offers various options for accommodation and dining. You can expect to find local restaurants serving traditional Calabrian cuisine and guesthouses or hotels in Cicala and nearby towns, especially those catering to visitors exploring the Sila National Park.
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