Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria
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Latest page update: 1 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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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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Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria • Southernmost Province on the Italian Mainland
The Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria is located in the southernmost part of Italy, forming the heart of the Calabria region. It stretches along the Tyrrhenian and Ionian coasts, with the Strait of Messina to the north, separating it from the island of Sicily. The province is known for its dramatic landscapes, with towering mountains, dense forests, and a rugged coastline dotted with charming villages and sandy beaches. Its combination of natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage makes it one of the most intriguing areas in Calabria.
The main city, Reggio Calabria, is home to historical sites such as the National Archaeological Museum, which houses the famous Riace Bronzes, and the city's scenic Lungomare promenade offering stunning views across the Strait of Messina. To the east, the Ionian coast is known for its serene beaches and coastal towns like Locri, which has important archaeological sites from ancient Greek times. Inland, the Aspromonte National Park offers rugged terrain perfect for outdoor activities, with hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains. The region is also home to several picturesque villages such as Gerace, with its medieval castle, and Scilla, which is steeped in Greek mythology.
The province's rich agricultural landscape is another highlight, with extensive olive groves, citrus orchards, and vineyards that contribute to the region’s culinary traditions. The combination of dramatic natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and historic sites makes the province of Reggio Calabria a diverse and captivating destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.
The main city, Reggio Calabria, is home to historical sites such as the National Archaeological Museum, which houses the famous Riace Bronzes, and the city's scenic Lungomare promenade offering stunning views across the Strait of Messina. To the east, the Ionian coast is known for its serene beaches and coastal towns like Locri, which has important archaeological sites from ancient Greek times. Inland, the Aspromonte National Park offers rugged terrain perfect for outdoor activities, with hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains. The region is also home to several picturesque villages such as Gerace, with its medieval castle, and Scilla, which is steeped in Greek mythology.
The province's rich agricultural landscape is another highlight, with extensive olive groves, citrus orchards, and vineyards that contribute to the region’s culinary traditions. The combination of dramatic natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and historic sites makes the province of Reggio Calabria a diverse and captivating destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.
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: 515,046 (in 2024 - source) Size: 3,183 km² Comunes: 97 Province code: RC |
Neighbouring provinces: Catanzaro, Vibo Valentia
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