Scilla is a town in the Italian province of Reggio Calabria, Calabria. Important tourist destination and seaside resort just north of Reggio, which is one of the finest and most distinctive villages of Italy; it is also a popular summer destination. Scilla is located on the homonymous tip, which is 22 km north of the capital; Promontory Scillèo, leaning over the Strait of Messina. The origins are ancient, confused between the mythology, history, legend and poetic images fed for millennia by the suggestiveness of the natural environment. The historic center is called “San Giorgio”, and is built around Saint Roch Square which is based, among other things, by the church of Saint Roch, patron of Scilla, and the town hall. Saint Roch Square consists of a large terrace built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the panorama of the Strait of Messina. You can see Point Paci (which marks the southern end of the area Scilla), Sicily (especially Ganzirri and on a clear day, Cape Milazzo), in the distance some of the Aeolian Islands (Lipari, Panarea and Stromboli ) and the Ruffo Castle. The historic center includes the ancient city of Bastia, characterized by low houses overlooking the narrow streets. Some architectural elements of the local style still visible today in existing buildings, the characteristic vault and the typical circular window. Chianalea is the coastal area located on the north side of the cliff that houses the castle that separates Marina Grande, we find only a few meters beach because almost all its coast consists of cliffs and rocks that make it difficult and dangerous to entry into the water. Near the center we find Jeracari which is the most recent expansion where we find the municipal sports field. One of the main activities is the traditional fishing, known as ‘hunting swordfish’ (very important activity until the 50s). Today, tourism is a growing business.
Tips
Scilla is an ideal place for a great family holiday. You will find the sea, the beach, a good selection of restaurants, natural beauty and architectural works.
In the church of the Holy Spirit, in Marina Grande, you can see the painting Descent of the Holy Spirit by Francesco Celebrano (1799).
Unmissable, the Ruffo castle, which gives another touch of charm to such a beautiful place.
Photos by Francesco Cordova
