Crotone
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 21 November 2023
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The city of Crotone is the capital of the Province of Crotone with a population of 64,710 inhabitants.
Founded in 710 BC, the city was originally named Kroton and was one of the most important centres of the Magna Graecia region. It was at one stage home to the famous Greek mathematician: Pythagoras, who has a museum named after him in the city. Crotone is situated on the Ionian Coast with the city of Catanzaro, the regional capital of Calabria, lying 72 kilometres south west. |
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With its seaside location, the first and most obvious attraction of the city is its long, sandy beach. The seafront (lungomare) is where you'll find a good selection of restaurants specialising in fresh fish dishes.
Although much of the city centre is relatively modern in appearance, the most striking sight is its 16th century castle (Castello di Carlo V) which sits in an elevated position overlooking the harbour. The walk up to the castle takes you past an intricate web of narrow streets which give a different perspective to the city.
Although much of the city centre is relatively modern in appearance, the most striking sight is its 16th century castle (Castello di Carlo V) which sits in an elevated position overlooking the harbour. The walk up to the castle takes you past an intricate web of narrow streets which give a different perspective to the city.
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Crotone is a historic town located in the Calabria region of southern Italy, along the Ionian Sea. It is the capital of the province of Crotone and has a rich history that dates back to ancient times.
History
Crotone, known as Kroton in ancient Greek times, was founded as a Greek colony in the 8th century BC by Achaeans and Troezenians. It quickly became one of the most important cities in Magna Graecia (Greater Greece) and a center of culture, philosophy, and athletics.
The famous athlete Milo of Croton was born here, and the philosopher Pythagoras founded his school in the city. Throughout its history, Crotone saw various dominations, including the Romans, Byzantines, Normans, and Aragonese.
It was an important maritime and trading center during the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods. The town experienced prosperity and cultural flourishing, leaving behind an impressive architectural heritage.
The famous athlete Milo of Croton was born here, and the philosopher Pythagoras founded his school in the city. Throughout its history, Crotone saw various dominations, including the Romans, Byzantines, Normans, and Aragonese.
It was an important maritime and trading center during the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods. The town experienced prosperity and cultural flourishing, leaving behind an impressive architectural heritage.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Capo Colonna Archaeological Park: This archaeological site is located about 8 kilometers from Crotone. It preserves the remains of the ancient Greek temple of Hera Lacinia, which dates back to the 6th century BC. The temple's columns are the only ones still standing in Italy from the ancient Greek world.
- Crotone Cathedral: The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is a beautiful religious building dating back to the 9th century. It boasts a mix of architectural styles due to the various reconstructions it underwent over the centuries.
- Castle of Charles V: The imposing Castle of Charles V, also known as the Castello di Carlo V, was built in the 16th century. It offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
- Waterfront Promenade: Crotone has a charming waterfront promenade, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying views of the sea.
- National Archaeological Museum: The town's archaeological museum houses a collection of artifacts from ancient Greek and Roman times, providing insight into Crotone's rich history.
- Local Cuisine: Crotone is renowned for its delicious seafood dishes, Calabrian cuisine, and wines. Be sure to try some of the local specialties during your visit.
- Beaches: Crotone boasts beautiful sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers.
Comune di Crotone
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Province: Crotone
Region: Calabria Population: 60,123 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2022) Size: 180 km² Highlights: beaches, Castello di Carlo V, Archaeological Museum Close by: Capo Colonna, Le Castella, Cirò Marina, Cariati Recommended hotel: Villa Aurora (28 km) |
Crotone Travel
Crotone's main train station is called Stazione di Crotone and is located at the edge of the city, around 3 kilometres from the seafront; a walk of half an hour or a 10 minute taxi ride. From the station you can take a direct train to Reggio Calabria, a journey of 3 hours and 25 minutes with 14 stops along the way including Catanzaro Lido, Soverato and Siderno among others.
Whilst Crotone does have its own airport, it does have its limitations with most flights going to one destination: Milan Bergamo Airport in the north of Italy. This can be useful for connecting flights to London Stansted with Ryanair, but for direct flights there's Lamezia Terme Airport which is an hour and 40 minutes away by car, a distance of 104 kilometres.
Crotone and the area that surrounds it are full of history and you can make a day of it by visiting two important archaeological sites. In the city itself there's the Museo Archeologico Nazionale (National Archaeological Museum) while just a short drive south along the coast is the famous Capo Colonna. Other places of interest close by include the seaside locations of Le Castella, Cirò Marina and Cariati.
Whilst Crotone does have its own airport, it does have its limitations with most flights going to one destination: Milan Bergamo Airport in the north of Italy. This can be useful for connecting flights to London Stansted with Ryanair, but for direct flights there's Lamezia Terme Airport which is an hour and 40 minutes away by car, a distance of 104 kilometres.
Crotone and the area that surrounds it are full of history and you can make a day of it by visiting two important archaeological sites. In the city itself there's the Museo Archeologico Nazionale (National Archaeological Museum) while just a short drive south along the coast is the famous Capo Colonna. Other places of interest close by include the seaside locations of Le Castella, Cirò Marina and Cariati.
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Public transport: train station 2 km from centre, local buses
By train: Reggio Calabria - 3 hours and 25 minutes |
By car: Catanzaro - 1 hour 14 minutes, Cosenza - 1 hour 22 mins
Fly to: Crotone Airport, 18 mins by car (15 km) |
