Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 21 November 2023
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The Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria province occupies a total geographical area of 3,183 square kilometres, including the provincial capital city of Reggio Calabria.
Within the province there are 97 different provincial towns which are known as communes (comune singular or comuni plural in Italian). |
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The total population of the province is around 548,000 inhabitants. Among the visitor highlights in the province are the seaside town of Scilla, the ghost town of Pentedattilo, the borgo of Chianalea and the hill towns of Bova and Stilo.
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Profile
The Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria, often simply referred to as Reggio Calabria, is a captivating province located in the Calabria region of southern Italy. It is the southernmost province on the mainland and is bordered by the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west and the Ionian Sea to the east.
History
Reggio Calabria boasts a rich and diverse history that stretches back to ancient times. It was founded by the ancient Greeks around the 8th century BC and was later part of the Magna Graecia, a group of Greek colonies in southern Italy.
The region was then conquered by the Romans and subsequently became part of various kingdoms and empires, including the Byzantine Empire, the Kingdom of Sicily, and the Kingdom of Naples.
Throughout history, the province faced numerous invasions and conflicts due to its strategic location. Reggio Calabria also played a significant role during the Italian unification process in the 19th century.
The region was then conquered by the Romans and subsequently became part of various kingdoms and empires, including the Byzantine Empire, the Kingdom of Sicily, and the Kingdom of Naples.
Throughout history, the province faced numerous invasions and conflicts due to its strategic location. Reggio Calabria also played a significant role during the Italian unification process in the 19th century.
Highlights
- The Riace Bronzes: Reggio Calabria is famous for its archaeological treasures, including the Riace Bronzes. These ancient Greek bronze statues of warriors were discovered in the waters near Riace Marina and are now housed in the National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria. They are among the finest examples of ancient Greek art and attract visitors from around the world.
- Scilla and Chianalea: Scilla is a charming coastal town known for its picturesque fishing village, Chianalea. The village features colorful houses perched on cliffs above the sea, connected by a labyrinth of narrow alleys. It is a popular destination for its romantic ambiance and scenic beauty.
- Aspromonte National Park: The province is home to the Aspromonte National Park, a vast protected area with stunning landscapes, dense forests, and mountainous terrain. The park is ideal for hiking, nature walks, and wildlife spotting.
- Pentedattilo: This intriguing village is famous for its unique rock formations, which resemble the five fingers of a hand, giving it the name "Pentedattilo" (five fingers). The abandoned village offers a haunting yet fascinating atmosphere.
- Reggio Calabria Waterfront: The city of Reggio Calabria has a beautiful waterfront promenade, Lungomare Falcomatà, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Italy. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the seafront, taking in the views of the Strait of Messina and the Sicilian coastline.
- Local Cuisine: Reggio Calabria is renowned for its delicious Calabrian cuisine, which features fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and traditional dishes. Be sure to try specialties like 'nduja, a spicy spreadable salami, and swordfish.
- Beaches: The province is blessed with numerous beautiful beaches along its coastlines, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers and beach lovers.
Città Metropolitana di Reggio Calabria
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Region: Calabria
Provincial capital: Reggio Calabria Population: 523,791 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2022) Size: 3,183 km² Comunes: 97 Province code: RC |
Neighbouring provinces: Catanzaro, Vibo Valentia
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