Vibo Valentia
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 21 November 2023
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The city of Vibo Valentia is the capital of the Province of Vibo Valentia with a population of 33,455 inhabitants.
Situated close to the Tyrrhenian Coast, it lies 70 kilometres south west of Catanzaro, the regional capital of Calabria. Founded around the 7th century BC, the city's original name was Hipponion (Greek), later modified to Hipponium (Latin). The name changed 500 years later to Vibo Valentia but it was changed in the 13th century to Monteleone. |
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Indeed, Monteleone di Calabria was its name as recently as 1928 before it reverted to Vibo Valentia. Of Calabria's five provincial capitals, Vibo Valentia has the smallest population. It sits in an elevated position, 476 metres above sea level, and can be reached via a steep road that leads up to it from the coast.
The city centre has a small number of shops and few places to eat with the most pleasant area that around its park, Villa Comunale. At the northern end of the attractive park is the impressive cathedral (Duomo di Santa Maria Maggiore e San Leoluca). The most famous landmark in Vibo is the eleventh century castle (Castello Normanno Svevo), which stands guard over the city from its hilltop perch.
The city centre has a small number of shops and few places to eat with the most pleasant area that around its park, Villa Comunale. At the northern end of the attractive park is the impressive cathedral (Duomo di Santa Maria Maggiore e San Leoluca). The most famous landmark in Vibo is the eleventh century castle (Castello Normanno Svevo), which stands guard over the city from its hilltop perch.
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Vibo Valentia is a charming town located in the Calabria region of southern Italy. Situated on the Tyrrhenian Sea coast, the town is the administrative capital of the Vibo Valentia Province. It boasts a rich history, picturesque landscapes, and a warm Mediterranean climate, making it an attractive destination for tourists.
History
The town of Vibo Valentia has ancient origins and was once known as "Hipponion" during the Greek colonization of southern Italy. It later became an important Roman colony and played a significant role during the Byzantine and Norman periods. The town faced numerous invasions and rule by various kingdoms throughout history, including the Kingdom of Naples and the Kingdom of Sicily.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Norman Castle of Bivona: One of the main attractions in Vibo Valentia is the Norman Castle of Bivona, a medieval fortress perched on a hill overlooking the town. The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
- Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore: The town's cathedral is an impressive example of religious architecture, featuring a mix of different styles, including Norman, Gothic, and Renaissance. The cathedral houses valuable works of art and religious relics.
- Historic Centre: The old town of Vibo Valentia is a delightful place to explore on foot. Wander through its narrow streets, where you'll find charming squares, quaint cafes, and local shops.
- Piazza Fontana Vecchia: This picturesque square is a focal point in the town and is surrounded by historical buildings and elegant palaces. It's a great spot to enjoy a leisurely stroll or relax at one of the outdoor cafes.
- Local Cuisine: Vibo Valentia offers a taste of authentic Calabrian cuisine. Don't miss the chance to savor dishes like pasta with 'nduja, traditional cured meats, and fresh seafood caught from the nearby sea.
- Beaches: Vibo Valentia is close to some of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa degli Dei (Coast of the Gods). Popular nearby beach destinations include Tropea, Pizzo, and Capo Vaticano, where you can enjoy the sun and sea.
- Natural Beauty: The surrounding countryside of Vibo Valentia is characterized by rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards. The area offers opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and exploring the lush landscapes.
Comune di Vibo Valentia
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Province: Vibo Valentia
Region: Calabria Population: 31,753 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2022) Size: 46 km² Elevation: 476 metres Highlights: Villa Comunale, Castello Normanno Svevo, Duomo Close by: Vibo Marina, Pizzo, Briatico, Capo Vaticano, Tropea Recommended accommodation: Piccolo Grand Hotel (13 km) |
Vibo Valentia Travel
In terms of public transport, a system of local buses is in operation with the main destinations of interest being those along the coast. The city shares its railway station with Pizzo and the station, called Vibo Valentia-Pizzo, is located 7 kilometres outside the city, a ten minute car journey away.
Despite the inconvenience of the station being located outside the city, it does have an unusually useful list of destinations that can be reached from it. Heading south for example, you can take a direct train to Reggio Calabria with a journey time of 1 hour and 12 minutes, with stops along the way at Scilla and Villa San Giovanni among the most notable. Heading north in the opposite direction there are direct connections to Salerno, Naples and Rome.
The most convenient airport for Vibo Valentia is Lamezia Terme Airport which is just 35 kilometres away, a drive of around 35 minutes.
A short drive from Vibo Valentia are some of Calabria's best seaside locations. The towns of Tropea (45 minutes) and Pizzo (15 minutes) are both worthy of a day out in their own right while also of note are the the beaches at Capo Vaticano. One of the region's quirkiest sights is also close by: the Chiesetta di Piedigrotta, a church carved out of rock at the back of a beach on the approach to Pizzo.
Despite the inconvenience of the station being located outside the city, it does have an unusually useful list of destinations that can be reached from it. Heading south for example, you can take a direct train to Reggio Calabria with a journey time of 1 hour and 12 minutes, with stops along the way at Scilla and Villa San Giovanni among the most notable. Heading north in the opposite direction there are direct connections to Salerno, Naples and Rome.
The most convenient airport for Vibo Valentia is Lamezia Terme Airport which is just 35 kilometres away, a drive of around 35 minutes.
A short drive from Vibo Valentia are some of Calabria's best seaside locations. The towns of Tropea (45 minutes) and Pizzo (15 minutes) are both worthy of a day out in their own right while also of note are the the beaches at Capo Vaticano. One of the region's quirkiest sights is also close by: the Chiesetta di Piedigrotta, a church carved out of rock at the back of a beach on the approach to Pizzo.
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Public transport: train station 7 km outside city, local buses
By train: Reggio Calabria, 1 hour 12 minutes |
By car: Catanzaro - 53 minutes, Cosenza - 1 hour 15 minutes
Fly to: Lamezia Terme Airport, 35 mins by car (35 km) |
