Catanzaro, the capital of its namesake province, is often referred to as the “windy city” due to the constant breezes—a welcome relief during the hot summer months. The province enjoys a unique geographical position, overlooking two seas, or “due mari”: the Ionian to the east and the Tyrrhenian to the west. In fact, this central part of the province is home to the narrowest stretch of Italy.
If you’d like to explore Calabria, discovering its many treasures in the company of expert local guides, please browse our selection of Small Group Trips to Italy.
Catanzaro, the capital of Calabria, is a sprawling urban center that extends all the way to its seaside district, Catanzaro Lido, on the Ionian coast. The city boasts both a vibrant modern hub and a charming old town, offering visitors a diverse range of experiences.
If you’re planning a trip to Calabria, Catanzaro is a fantastic choice as a home base for exploring the region or as a day-trip destination. Should you decide to spend some time here, don’t miss these must-see attractions:
Il Cavatore
This large fountain located in Piazza Matteotti is very symbolic of this city. The fountain is embedded in the old walls of a Norman Castle and features a strong muscular man with a pickaxe in hand. He represents the strength of this population. The fountain sits in the center of the town just above the historic center.
Old Town Catanzaro
Catanzaro’s historic old town is the perfect size for leisurely wandering, allowing you to lose yourself in the quaint alleyways of this once-medieval village. The main street, Corso Mazzini, is lined with small boutiques and cozy coffee shops. However, the true charm lies in the side streets, where hidden corners seem frozen in time, offering a glimpse into the town’s storied past.
Make your way back to Corso Mazzini and follow it to its end, where you’ll discover the Church of Saint Francis of Paola, the patron saint of Calabria. For an unforgettable panoramic view, continue a bit further to Via Nuova.
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Stroll the Parks of Catanzaro
Catanzaro is home to two remarkable parks, one of which is Villa Trieste—though many locals still refer to it by its original name, Villa Margherita. As the city’s oldest public garden, it holds historical significance, having opened in January 1881 during a visit by its namesake, Queen Margherita of Savoy, consort of the King of Italy.
Perched on a hillside, the gardens offer sweeping views of the city and the distant Ionian coast. Stroll through its serene pathways, surrounded by a diverse array of plants and flowers, and admire the various sculptures that add to the park’s charm.
The second must-visit park in Catanzaro is the Park of Mediterranean Biodiversity, a sprawling 150-acre oasis that provides a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This expansive park features serene lakes and ponds, a large botanical garden, a skate park, and a children’s playground. With its diverse attractions, it offers something for everyone, making it a truly unique and memorable destination.
Try Morzello when in Catanzaro
A stay in Catanzaro wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of its traditional foods. In particular, “il Morzello” – a fiery tripe dish often served up with pitta bread. You’ll find this on many menus in local restaurants and trattorias. If you’re not adventurous enough to try morzello, we suggest trying soppressata (Calabrian salami) or patate e pipi (potatoes and peppers).
If you are interested in traveling to Calabria, including Catanzaro, on your vacation, contact us for more information! You can also browse our selection of curated Calabria Tours to get a taste of what to expect from this amazing part of southern Italy.
Image Credit: Aquila giallorossa, Nicholas Gemini
