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The Province of Vibo Valentia: the Land of Calabria Facing the Tyrrhenian Sea
The Province of Vibo Valentia is located in the southern region of Calabria, Italy. With a population of almost 150,000 inhabitants, the province covers an area of about 1139 km² and comprises fifty municipalities. Facing west onto the Tyrrhenian Sea, it borders the province of Catanzaro to the northeast and the metropolitan city of Reggio Calabria to the southeast.
Physical Geography
Territory
The province's territory ranges from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Serre Mountains. The coast is dotted with terraces at various altitudes, where small local rural settlements are found. Here, you can find the urban center of Vibo Marina, characterized by the harbor and the industrial areas behind it. The territory also includes Lake Angitola. Recent studies have discovered an extinct volcano off the coast of Capo Vaticano.
Climate
The climate of the Province of Vibo Valentia presents diverse characteristics. Along the coast, there is a Mediterranean climate with very hot and sunny summers. Rainfall is abundant and frequent between Vibo Marina and the mouth of the Angitola River. From 150 m above sea level to 600 m, there is a Tyrrhenian Mediterranean climate with slightly more continental characteristics than the coastal zone. At higher altitudes, there is a chestnut-shaped Apennine climate. In winter, there are frosts and about two or three snow events per year.
Districts and Main Destinations
The area surrounding the city of Vibo Valentia is one of the main tourist centers of the province. The city has many historical and cultural attractions, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Church of San Michele, and the Norman-Swabian Castle. Along the coast, there are many famous beaches, including Tropea, Pizzo, and Capo Vaticano.
Tropea
Located on the Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria, Tropea is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Province of Vibo Valentia. The city is famous for the beauty of its beaches, including Tropea Beach with the famous rock of Santa Maria dell'Isola. The city also has many historical attractions, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria dell'Isola and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola.
Pizzo
Pizzo is a beautiful town in Calabria, located on the western coast of the Province of Vibo Valentia. The city's historic center has a strong Baroque imprint, with numerous historical buildings and ancient monuments. The city is famous for the Aragonese Castle, located on a hill with a view of the sea. Here, the famous "Tartufo" ice cream of Pizzo is also produced.
Capo Vaticano
Located on the Tyrrhenian coast of the Province of Vibo Valentia, Capo Vaticano is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Calabria. The most famous panoramic point of the area is the Belvedere of Capo Vaticano, from which you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the islands of Sicily and the Aeolian Islands. The sea here is crystal clear, and the beaches are among the most beautiful in the region.
Economy
Agriculture
Agriculture is the main source of income in the Province of Vibo Valentia. Among the main crops are citrus fruits, olive oil, wine, and fruit. In particular, the production of red onions from Tropea is famous all over the world.
Trade and Tourism
Trade and tourism are the other two activities that contribute significantly to the economy of the province. The coastal cities of Tropea, Pizzo, and Capo Vaticano attract thousands of tourists every year, thanks to their splendid beaches, crystal clear sea, and warm and sunny climate.
Conclusions
The Province of Vibo Valentia is a gem of Calabria, located along the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea. With its natural beauties, enchanting beaches, historical cities, and rich culture, the province is an ideal destination for tourists and anyone looking for a relaxing and unforgettable holiday.
