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Crotone
Overview
Crotone is part of the ancient Greater Greece (Magna Graecia) and its history shows extensive colonisation by the Greek settlers since 710 BC. Crotone has a history of producing masterminds, including physicians, astronomers, mathematicians and philosophers. Pythagoras, the famous Ionian Greek philosopher, established his residence in Crotone around 530 BC and recruited students to Pythagoreanism.
Crotone's proximity to the Ionian Sea is the most attractive feature for the modern day tourist, but several centuries ago, this proximity was the cause of Crotone's constant invasions and long line of rulers. Attacks from neighbouring regions and political overhauls are commonly found in Crotone's past.
During the two World Wars, Crotone went through phases of industrial development because it's located between the Taranto and Messina ports. In the 1930s, Crotone had a considerably large population, which declined after the fall of the city's main employers in the late 1980s and the area was destroyed by floods in 1996. Crotone is now an urban development targeted by the Italian government for creating high-quality lifestyle villages. The beautiful Scila mountains provides the western border of Crotone and this natural setting makes Crotone a lovely place to enjoy coming home to everyday or just spend a holiday.
Crotone Attractions
Crotone's past invasions and constant involvement in wars have left little of the original structures in place. The beaches are by far the most popular tourist attraction in Crotone, but there are a few heritage buildings worth visiting while you're in the region.
The Castle of Charles V & Le Castella
A castle built during the 16th century, it now houses the Town Museum and the ruins of ancient Kroton. Watchtowers and walls remaining from the early Greek settlement days can also be found here.
Le Castella is located on an island nearby Crotone's main beach and has a footpath to allow access to the explorers.
The Cathedral
Originally believed to be from the 9th century, the Cathedral has been rebuilt along the way, just like many other old buildings in Crotone. Its Baroque interior is of interest to many, as well as the Icon of Black Madonna (Madonna di Capo Colonna).
Museums
The various piazzas in Crotone offer several museums worth visiting if you're interested in the bygone era and artworks. The Civic Museum, National Archaeological Museum of Crotone, Contemporary Art Museum, Bastion Toledo Gallery and the Morelli Foundation provide insights into Crotone's past and present.
Capo Colonna Archaeological Park
Travel approximately 13 kilometres along the coastline from the central city of Crotone towards Torre Mariedda and you come to the site of Capo Colonna, the archaeological park where the ruins of ancient Magna Graecia were discovered. A museum is built into the earth to preserve the site and it has three sections, namely The Earth, The Sacred and The Sea. Structural ruins from a temple built to worship Hera, underwater artefacts and objects used for rituals are among the highlights of the museum.
Crotone Beaches
A long stretch of beautiful sand along the Ionian Sea coast in Crotone has become the 'go-to' place in every Crotone tourist's agenda. The beach is crowded during Summer time, but the warm breezes, plenty of sunshine and myriad of restaurants, cafes and bars keep everyone happy. The beach area is also dominated by the resorts offering everything from water sports and tours to nightlife and fine dining.
Besides the hundreds of heritage sites to be explored in Crotone, guided mountain tours and yacht charters are rapidly becoming popular among holidaymakers.
Transportation
Public transport is available through railway in the central city area, but it would be wise to get yourself a rental car as soon as you arrive in Crotone and drive along 106 Ionica (the National Road). Sant'Anna, Crotone's Airport, is only serviced by charter airlines.
Dining & Entertainment
Crotone's favourites include the typical Mediterranean dishes consisting of pasta varieties, fritattas and gourmet seafood platters. Meats are commonly served, as well as locally grown fresh produce. Similar to all regions in Calabria, wine always accompanies heavy meals.
Entertainment in Crotone can range from the resort nightlife to traditional festivals held to celebrate food, wine and religion. In August, you can experience the Great Greek Carnival, while September hosts the Calabrese Cuisine Festival. Feasts to commemorate the saints and Virgin Mary are held throughout the year.
Crotone Property Market
Crotone offers great beaches and scenery, providing an ideal location for property development. The Calabria property market has focused on many attractions of this type and developed a range of new properties for the eager investors. The properties are affordable and cater to a high-quality lifestyle, while offering a range of tax benefits and government incentives for foreign ownership.
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