Discover the Pearl of Calabria: This Italian City’s Clifftop Wonders Await

Sitting atop dramatic cliffs overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea in the southern tip of Italy, Tropea captures immediate attention with its historic town perched high above the water, along with unspoiled sandy shores. Nestled between the ocean and the heavens, thisCalabrian treasure can be appreciated year-round. Below is an introduction to its key sights!

The historical center of Tropea, a vantage point above the ocean.

Situated in the western part
Calabria
In the northernmost part of Italy’s boot-shaped peninsula, lies a charming small town home to only 6,000 residents, making it one of the most appealing spots along the Tyrrhenian coastline. Situated at an elevation of 60 meters above sea level, the historic center features narrow cobblestone lanes intertwined with elegant palaces and terracotta-colored homes adorned with blooming rose-covered balconies. The crowning glory here is undoubtedly the cathedral, constructed during the 12th century.

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By the time of the Normans, this monument presents itself externally with a restrained profile adorned by elegant Romanesque archways. Inside, numerous artistic treasures await, such as the sculpture of the Madonna del Popolo created by Fra Montorsoli in 1555, who was himself a student of Michelangelo. An unusual feature sure to draw attention is located on each side of the principal entrance door: two unexploded American bombs from World War II remain intact here.

Santa Maria dell’Isola, a sanctuary perched above the boundless azure sea

You can’t imagine Tropea without the famous Santa Maria dell’Isola. This sanctuary is perched on a rocky outcrop above a lengthy sandy shore. It serves as a Benedictine monastery, likely originating from the 11th century.

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The structure has undergone changes and renovations throughout the centuries and stands as one of Tropea’s most distinctive emblems. Accessible via a flight of 100 steps leading to the forecourt, it offers visitors a remarkable vista of Tropea and the ocean below.

The beaches of Tropea boast incredible hues of azure waters and golden sands.

Perhaps Tropea’s biggest draw lies in its stunning location; sheltered by towering cliffs, the city boasts an idyllic shoreline, featuring numerous sandy beaches, several of which rank amongst the finest.
most beautiful in Italy
The round-shaped Spiaggia Rotonda, located to the right of the Santa Maria dell’Isola rock formation, stands out as the most renowned and vibrant spot around. For a quieter experience, explore the smaller Spiaggia del Cannone, which is tucked away close to the harbor. Should you venture into scuba diving, you might discover the Grotta del Palombaro, a marine cavern situated north of Santa Maria dell’Isola. Alternatively, the Mare Grande beach offers rows of umbrellas and deckchairs ideal for a leisurely seaside day.

Cape Vatican, a natural viewpoint overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea

About 12 kilometers away from the heart of Tropea, Capo Vaticano emerges dramatically from the sea atop steep cliffs. Situated at an elevation of 107 meters, the cape’s lighthouse provides a stunning vista of hidden bays stretching along the shoreline and beyond into the distance.
Sicily
And Stromboli. Behind the cape, another observatory will provide access to a more rugged terrain, where cliffs conceal hidden coves accessible solely by watercraft.