Davoli
The Province of Catanzaro: A Land to Discover
If you're looking for a destination for your summer vacation in Italy, why not consider the Province of Catanzaro? This area of Calabria, with a population of 340,679 inhabitants, is one of the largest provinces in the region and is rich in history and natural beauty.
Physical Geography
Territory
Catanzaro is an impressive region from many points of view. With an area of 2,391 km², it occupies 15.9% of the regional territory and the central part of Calabria. The province is bordered by the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west, the Sila Mountains to the north, the Ionian Sea to the east, and the Calabrian Serre to the south. But the highlight of the territory is the isthmus of Catanzaro, a valley about 30 km long that connects the two coasts from the Gulf of Squillace to the Gulf of Sant'Eufemia and is the narrowest point of the entire Italian peninsula. In other words, from some areas of the province, it is possible to simultaneously see the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Ionian Sea, the Aeolian Islands, and even the top of Mount Etna.
Hydrography
Catanzaro is also located in a privileged position from the point of view of hydrography. The province is characterized by numerous rivers that run throughout it, including the Savuto River, the Amato River, and the Corace River. In addition, there are some important water basins, such as Lake Ampollino and Lake Passante.
History
The Province of Catanzaro has been inhabited since ancient times and the area was originally occupied by the Vituli, who worshiped the calf simulacrum. Over the centuries, the province has undergone many cultural influences from peoples such as the Greeks, Romans, Normans, and Aragonese, and its history is full of battles and conquests.
During the Norman-Swabian period, the Province of Catanzaro was part of Calabria Ultra, and the symbols of the province reflect this historical heritage. Today, the province is known for its rich culture and the numerous tourist attractions that attract visitors from all over the world.
What to do and see
The Province of Catanzaro offers many opportunities for leisure and entertainment. If you are a nature lover, you cannot miss the opportunity to visit the National Park of Sila, where you can take walks in nature and admire the mountainous landscape. In addition, the province's beaches are among the most beautiful in Italy, with white sand and crystal-clear water.
If you are interested in culture and history, don't miss the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Catanzaro, built in the 13th century and rich in works of art. The Norman Castle of Squillace and the Devil's Bridge, a Roman bridge located in the valley of the Amato River, are also two of the most popular attractions in the province.
Finally, food lovers should definitely try the typical dishes of the province, including the strong ricotta cheese of Caulonia, Calabrian sausages, and 'nduja, a very spicy sausage produced in the area of Spilinga.
Conclusions
In conclusion, the Province of Catanzaro is a wonderful area that combines natural beauty, history, and culture. If you're thinking of spending your vacation in Italy, don't hesitate to visit this province of Calabria, which will conquer you with its beauty and authenticity.
