Soriano Calabro
Vibo Valentia: the capital of the Province of Vibo Valentia in Calabria
Vibo Valentia is a municipality located in the homonymous province in Calabria with a population of 31,123 people. It was previously named Monteleone until 1863 and Monteleone di Calabria from 1863 to 1928, and is known as Vibbu Valenzia or Muntiliuni in Calabrian dialects. It overlooks the Coast of the Gods, one of the most famous and suggestive areas of the Calabrian coast, due to its strategic position.
Physical geography
Territory
The territory of Vibo Valentia is located on a hill and has a strategic position in the territorial scope. It was a fortified center under the Byzantine Empire during the High Middle Ages and subsequently came under Norman control. The city dominates both the hinterland and the mountain range of the Calabrian Serre, as well as the maritime area with its port and tourist stations.
Hydrography
The municipal territory is crossed by the Mesima River, which is the most important river in the area. The city presents numerous streams, among which stand out the Sant'Anna and the Trainiti.
Climate
The climate of the city is pleasant, never too cold, and often enjoys sunny days that can even reach 20°C. During the summer, the heat is not too intense but humidity can be high.
History
The city of Vibo Valentia corresponds to the ancient Hipponion, an important city of Magna Graecia that later became the colony of the Roman Empire of Valentia. The city subsequently came under Norman control. With the name Monteleone, it was the capital of Calabria Ulteriore from 1582 to 1593 and then again from 1806 to 1816. In 1992, the city became the capital of the Province of Vibo Valentia following the partition of the province of Catanzaro.
Economy
The municipality of Vibo Valentia has three major concentrations of industrial activities in the areas of Aeroporto, Porto Salvo, and on the border with Maierato, while the commercial area is located within the city on the hill, as well as the majority demographic.
Tourism
Vibo Valentia is an important tourist center thanks to its strategic position on the Coast of the Gods, one of the most beautiful and suggestive areas of Calabria. It has been chosen as the location for numerous film productions. Among the historical places of interest to visit are the Norman-Swabian Castle and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore.
Furthermore, the city is located near some of the most famous cities in Calabria, such as Tropea and Pizzo, and is highly appreciated by Italian and foreign tourists.
Conclusions
Vibo Valentia is a city rich in history and charm, situated in a privileged position on the Calabrian coast. The city has been chosen as the location for numerous film productions and is an important tourist center thanks to its strategic position on the Coast of the Gods. It is part of the Province of Vibo Valentia and is a place to visit for enthusiasts of history, culture, and traditions.
