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Cantanzaro
Overview
Catanzaro is a place to visit if you love natural scenery and the simple life. Consisting of two sections divided by the man-made Viadotto Morandi bridge, Catanzaro is well-known for its beach town, Catanzaro Lido. Catanzaro city is both the capital of Catanzaro province and Calabria region. It's also known as the 'city of two seas'.
The summer season in Catanzaro is the most attractive for tourists and residents in Calabria. The Ionian sea spreads along the lazy shores through Catanzaro to Soverato, offering lots of beach and water sports activities for visitors.
The historic centre of Catanzaro is located 300 metres above sea level and is the site where the remainders of heritage dwell. Catanzaro is believed to be of ancient Greek origin, often referred to in mythology by various names. The province is popularly referred to as the three Vs, which stands for the patron saint San Vitaliano, Velvet for the region's famous silk production and Vento, because of the ever-present strong sea breeze.
The Fiumarella Valley splits the province into two sections, which is connected by the man-made Viadotto Morandi Bridge built in the 1960s. The bridge is among the highest structures in Europe.
Catanzaro Attractions
Similar to most of Italian tourist destinations, Calabria has a lot of churches and religious monuments that are rooted in the Catholic faith. Cathedrals and basilicas are common in Catanzaro and make up 50% of what you can sightsee in the province. Other areas of interest are ancient government buildings, museums and the beach.
Duomo Cathedral & Norman Castle
The Duomo cathedral was built in 1121 and was originally a Norman cathedral. It was renovated with Renaissance architecture in the 16th century, only to be severely damaged in 1638. The bombings during World War II destroyed the entire cathedral, which was rebuilt afterwards to preserve history. Parts of the original Norman castle and a tower are still standing next to the cathedral grounds.
Immacolata Church (Basilica dell Immacolata) & Church of Rosario (Santissimo Rosario)
Among the many historical architectural structures remaining in Catanzaro, Basilica dell Immacolata and Santissimo Rosario Church are awe-inspiring. The beautiful detailing of the Renaissance architecture is sure to take your breath away.
Santa Teresa (Chiesa dell'Osservanza) Chapel
The chapel's interior belongs to the 16th century. The statue of Our Lady of Grace (Madonna delle Grazie) by Antonello Gagini and the Chapel of Holy Sepulchre can be viewed inside the Santa Teresa Chapel.
Catanzaro Lido Beaches
Aquamarine waters and clear white sand are always attractive options for holidaymakers and the Catanzaro beaches don't disappoint beach fans. Several kilometres stretch along the inland sea and offer a range of water sports and fun for everyone.
Don't forget to visit the Complesso Monumentale San Giovanni, Museo Provinciale Villa Margherita, Museo delle Carrozze, Museo della Civilta Contadina, Museo Risorgimentale, Palazzo della Provincia, Parco della Biodiversita Mediterranea, Museo della Seta, Museo Diocesano, Palazzo Arcivescovile and La Casa della Memoria.
Transportation
The Lamezia Terme Airport is situated within easy driving distance from Catanzaro. Once you arrive, it's best to hire a car to get around. Bus and train transport is available as well, but it's far more reliable to have your own transport.
Dining & Entertainment
Since meat is one of Italy's favourite ingredients in cuisine, you'll find pork, goat, lamb and chicken in a variety of dishes. But the best dining experience in Catanzaro comes from the simplest preparations. Spaghetti is a staple in the common household, with home-grown vegetable such as eggplant, mushrooms and zucchini spiced with chili and garnished with olive oil. Seafood dishes are served at the local restaurants along the coastline. Most meals are accompanied by locally produced wine.
Religious festivals , food markets and events to celebrate life in Calabria are often held in Catanzaro. Depending on the month and season, you might come across one or hundreds of celebrations, including the Bread Festival, Good Friday Procession, Feast of Our Lady In Heaven, various flea markets and more.
Catanzaro Property Market
Catanzaro is a province in Calabria, one of Italy's best upcoming property development regions. The year-round Mediterranean climate combined with the quiet lifestyle in Catanzaro has provided many investors the opportunity to purchase Calabria property in this region, while the ongoing developments are an invitation to all those who have missed out up to now. A range of government incentives and tax benefits await those who opt for foreign ownership of Calabria property.
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