Attractions and Places To See around San Marco Argentano - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around San Marco Argentano include a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. This historic town in Calabria is nestled between the Pollino Mountains and the Tyrrhenian Sea, offering diverse scenery. The area features green hills, lush forests, and the Fullone River valley. It is also known for its significant Norman architecture and cultural heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around San Marco Argentano
- The most popular attractions is Lake Tarsia, a lake that was created in 1959 with the damming of the Crati river for irrigation purposes. It is surrounded by a nature reserve which is home to various species of flora and fauna.
- Another must-see spot is Lago della Paglia, a small natural lake located in a wooded environment. On its shores there is a picnic area, making it an ideal destination for hikers and families.
- Visitors also love Altomonte, a settlement located on a promontory 455 meters high. Its historic center features various monuments of artistic and cultural interest, including the church of Santa Maria della Consolazione and a Norman tower.
- San Marco Argentano is known for its historical sites, natural lakes, and panoramic viewpoints. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient Norman structures to serene natural landscapes.
- The attractions around San Marco Argentano are appreciated by the komoot community. There are 13 photos and 9 upvotes for the highlights in this area.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Lake Tarsia
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View of the Sila Mountains
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Lago della Paglia
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Altomonte
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Church of San Francesco di Paola (Altomonte)
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Tips from the Community
A rather characteristic and beautiful place that can be visited throughout the year. The dam has beautiful vegetation with various species of birds. Furthermore, traffic from the dam to Cantinella Corigliano is limited, good for bicycles...
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Today, the Fiat 500 is one of the most photographed classic cars in the world. The first versions had a two-cylinder engine with a capacity of just 479 cm³ and a power of… 13 HP! And yet the car could reach speeds of over 80 km/h – with a tailwind and a light driver 😉
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The Fiat 500 is a moving reminder of Italy's past, and the Altomonte is a permanent reminder of its history. Both are small, but big in their own way. The Altomonte is squeezed into the green hills of Calabria like the Cinquecento into the narrow streets of Naples.
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Francis of Paola (1416–1507) was an Italian monk and mystic, founder of the Order of Minims. He came from the town of Paola in Calabria, hence his nickname "of Paola". He was known for his austere life, humility and the numerous miracles attributed to him. In 1519 he was canonized by Pope Leo X, and his cult is particularly strong in southern Italy, especially in Calabria, where he is still venerated as the patron saint of the region and protector of the faithful.
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The Church of San Francesco di Paola in Altomonte is an important pilgrimage site in Calabria, especially for those following in the footsteps of St. Francis of Paola. It is part of a wider pilgrimage context that includes various locations linked to the life of the saint. One of the main pilgrimage routes is the Cammino di San Francesco di Paola, a long-distance route of 247 km, divided into 12 stages. This route passes through places linked to the life of the saint in Calabria, including Altomonte. Pilgrims can walk through various stages, such as "La Via dei Monasteri", which connects the monasteries founded by St. Francis in the region. The Cammino offers spiritual support, including the possibility of obtaining a Testimonium after completing the route, which is a confirmation of having made the pilgrimage.
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The Church of San Francesco di Paola in Altomonte is one of the most important places of worship in Calabria, combining spirituality with a rich artistic and historical heritage. It was built in 1635 and completed in 1770, in Baroque style.
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Lago della Paglia is a small natural lake located in the municipality of Fagnano Castello, in the province of Cosenza, Calabria. It is located on the slopes of Mount Caloria, in the Calabrian Coastal Chain, at an altitude of about 964 meters above sea level. Natural characteristics The lake is immersed in a wooded environment composed mainly of beech, conifer, chestnut and oak trees, offering a suggestive and peaceful landscape. With a surface area that is just over a hectare, Lago della Paglia is one of the smallest lakes in the area, but it is a popular destination for its natural beauty. Activities and accessibility The lake is easily accessible via well-marked hiking trails, making it an ideal destination for hikers and families. On its shores there is a picnic area, perfect for a relaxing day immersed in nature. Environmental context Lago della Paglia is part of the Monte Caloria Natural Park, a nature reserve established in 1990 that covers about 940 hectares. The area is managed by the Municipal Administration of Fagnano Castello and offers numerous paths and panoramic points for nature lovers and hikers. How to get there Lago della Paglia is located a short distance from the center of Fagnano Castello. It can be reached via the Strada Statale delle Terme or by following the "strada dei laghi" that connects the various bodies of water in the area
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Cloister of the Cathedral of Altomonte
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around San Marco Argentano?
The region offers several beautiful natural spots. You can visit Lake Tarsia, an artificial lake surrounded by a nature reserve, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Another option is Lago della Paglia, a small natural lake nestled in a wooded environment, perfect for a relaxing day with a picnic area on its shores. The area also provides stunning views of the Sila Mountains.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit in San Marco Argentano?
San Marco Argentano is rich in history. You can explore the imposing Norman Tower (Torre di Drogone), erected in 1048, and the historic Cathedral of San Nicola. Don't miss the medieval Fountain of Sikelgaita in the historic center. The nearby settlement of Altomonte also features a Norman tower and the church of Santa Maria della Consolazione.
What cultural sites are there in San Marco Argentano?
The town boasts several cultural sites, including the Monastic Complex of Sant'Antonio, an ancient example of Franciscan architecture. You can also visit the Diocesan Museum to see sacred objects like a 13th-century silver reliquary cross, and the Museo Civico Mario Morelli, housing artworks donated by Sir Mario Morelli.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in the area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Lago della Paglia offers a picnic area, making it ideal for a relaxing day outdoors. Lake Tarsia, with its nature reserve, is also a great spot for families to enjoy nature. The historic center of Altomonte is pleasant for a stroll and exploring its monuments.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around San Marco Argentano?
The region is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking, road cycling, and mountain biking routes. For hiking, consider routes like 'The lakes of Fagnano Castello – ring tour' or 'Lago della Paglia loop'. Cyclists can explore routes such as 'Terranova di Sibari and Lago di Tarsia from San Marco Argentano' for road cycling or 'Laghicello – Laghicello Woods and Pond loop' for mountain biking. You can find more details on these activities in the respective guides: Hiking around San Marco Argentano, Road Cycling Routes around San Marco Argentano, and MTB Trails around San Marco Argentano.
Are there hiking trails near the attractions?
Yes, there are several hiking trails. For example, near Lago della Paglia, you'll find well-marked trails that make it easily accessible. The broader area offers trails like 'The lakes of Fagnano Castello – ring tour' and 'Lago della Paglia loop from LAgo Trifoglietti'. The region is also part of the Cammino di San Francesco di Paola, offering longer pilgrimage routes. Explore more hiking options in the Hiking around San Marco Argentano guide.
What is the significance of the Abbey of Santa Maria della Matina?
The Abbey of Santa Maria della Matina, originally a Benedictine and later a Cistercian abbey, holds significant historical importance. Founded by Robert Guiscard and Sikelgaita, it was consecrated in 1065 and even hosted Pope Urban II in 1092. Though only traces remain, its chapter house is considered a refined example of Cistercian architecture, reflecting its past prominence in medieval Calabria.
Can I visit places related to Saint Francis of Paola in the area?
Yes, San Marco Argentano has strong connections to Saint Francis of Paola. You can visit La Benedetta, a chapel within the Villa Comunale where Saint Francis of Paola prayed. Additionally, the nearby town of Altomonte features the Church of San Francesco di Paola, an important pilgrimage site and part of the Cammino di San Francesco di Paola, a long-distance route dedicated to the saint.
What are the best viewpoints for scenic panoramas?
For breathtaking views, head to the View of the Sila Mountains, an oasis of tranquility offering spectacular vistas of the majestic mountains. The town of San Marco Argentano itself, nestled between the Pollino Mountains and the Tyrrhenian Sea, provides diverse scenery, including green hills, lush forests, and views over the Fullone River valley.
What is special about the town of Altomonte?
Altomonte is a charming settlement located on a promontory 455 meters high. Its historic center is worth exploring for its various monuments of artistic and cultural interest, including the church of Santa Maria della Consolazione, the Church of San Francesco di Paola, the Dominican convent, and a Norman tower. It offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and architecture.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural areas around San Marco Argentano?
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and pristine beauty of nature. At viewpoints like the Sila Mountains, people enjoy immersing themselves in the serene mountain landscapes away from urban noise. The nature reserve around Lake Tarsia is valued for its diverse wildlife and peaceful environment, while Lago della Paglia is loved for its wooded setting and picnic facilities.
Most popular attractions around San Marco Argentano
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