Taverna Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the historic hill town in Calabria
Table of Contents
Taverna
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Latest page update: 19 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Taverna is situated within the Province of Catanzaro and has a population of 2,599 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 521 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 132 km². Recommended accommodation is the Il Semaforo Sila B&B e Sport Hotel while nearby places of interest include Sorbo San Basile, Squillace, Catanzaro Lido and Caminia. |
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Discover
Discover Taverna
Taverna is a small town located in the province of Catanzaro, in the central part of Calabria, nestled in the foothills of the Sila Mountains. Situated inland, it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with its landscape characterised by lush forests, valleys, and mountains. Taverna is known for its historical charm, featuring narrow streets, traditional stone buildings, and a peaceful atmosphere that reflects its rural heritage. The town is also famous for being the birthplace of the renowned artist Mattia Preti, whose works can be admired in the local church.
The town’s main attractions include the Church of San Domenico, which houses several of Preti’s paintings, and the nearby Museo Mattia Preti, dedicated to his life and work. Taverna is a hub for those interested in exploring the history of Calabria, with a medieval layout and several historical sites scattered throughout the town. The surrounding area provides ample opportunities for hiking and exploring, with the nearby Sila National Park offering extensive forests, mountain trails, and wildlife.
Close by, the city of Catanzaro offers more urban attractions, including its historical centre, museums, and the impressive Catanzaro Bridge. To the south, the Ionian coast provides access to beautiful beaches, while to the north, the Sila Mountains offer a wealth of outdoor activities, such as trekking and nature walks. Taverna, with its historical sites, proximity to nature, and access to both the mountains and the coast, offers a quiet and enriching experience for visitors to Calabria.
The town’s main attractions include the Church of San Domenico, which houses several of Preti’s paintings, and the nearby Museo Mattia Preti, dedicated to his life and work. Taverna is a hub for those interested in exploring the history of Calabria, with a medieval layout and several historical sites scattered throughout the town. The surrounding area provides ample opportunities for hiking and exploring, with the nearby Sila National Park offering extensive forests, mountain trails, and wildlife.
Close by, the city of Catanzaro offers more urban attractions, including its historical centre, museums, and the impressive Catanzaro Bridge. To the south, the Ionian coast provides access to beautiful beaches, while to the north, the Sila Mountains offer a wealth of outdoor activities, such as trekking and nature walks. Taverna, with its historical sites, proximity to nature, and access to both the mountains and the coast, offers a quiet and enriching experience for visitors to Calabria.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Taverna
- Centro Storico di Taverna lies nestled in the foothills of the Sila mountains, its streets weaving among stone houses, narrow alleys, and small piazzas. The village radiates a peaceful mountain atmosphere, with views over wooded hills and valleys. Small squares reveal ancient fountains and quiet spots. Walking here offers a glimpse into a place where history and natural beauty meet.
- Museo Nazionale della Sila is located in Taverna, showcasing archaeological finds, traditional crafts, and natural history related to the Sila region. The museum offers insights into the area’s past, from ancient settlements to rural traditions. It remains an important cultural centre and educational resource.
- Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore stands in the village centre, its simple façade leading to an interior decorated with frescoes and sacred artworks. The church has been a spiritual anchor for Taverna’s community over the centuries. It remains a valued place of worship and local heritage.
- Piazza San Domenico serves as Taverna’s social hub, bordered by traditional houses, cafés, and shops selling local products. The square hosts markets, festivals, and gatherings under the mountain skies. Cobblestones and natural surroundings create a welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to experience village life and customs.
- Guided cultural and nature tours in Taverna take visitors through historic streets, museum exhibits, and nearby forest trails within the Sila National Park. Local guides share stories of ancient peoples, mountain traditions, and the region’s biodiversity. Tours often include tastings of local cheeses, honey, and Calabrian wines. Exploring reveals Taverna’s blend of rich history and natural beauty.
Taverna Tours and Activities
Comune di Taverna
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Province: Catanzaro
Region: Calabria Population: 2,509 (in 2024 - source) Size: 132 km² Elevation: 521 metres Close by: Sorbo San Basile, Squillace, Catanzaro Lido, Caminia Recommended stay: Il Semaforo Sila B&B e Sport Hotel |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Listed since: 2016
1 of 6 in Calabria listed by Touring Club Italiano
Listed since: 2016
1 of 6 in Calabria listed by Touring Club Italiano
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Taverna
Photo Gallery
Taverna Photo Gallery
Calabria Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Calabria
1. Tropea
2. Pizzo
3. Scilla
4. Sila National Park
5. Le Castella
6. Capo Vaticano
7. Pentedattilo
8. Santa Severina
9. Riace Bronzes
10. Altomonte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Calabria
1. Tropea
2. Pizzo
3. Scilla
4. Sila National Park
5. Le Castella
6. Capo Vaticano
7. Pentedattilo
8. Santa Severina
9. Riace Bronzes
10. Altomonte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Calabria
