The salt-heavy air of the Strait of Messina carries with it a history spanning millennia, and at the Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia in Reggio Calabria, that heritage is preserved for your discovery.
Tracing the Footsteps of Ancient Greece
Located in the heart of the city, this museum serves as a dedicated space to explore the legacy of "Magna Grecia." From the 8th century BCE, Greek settlers influenced Roman culture and founded major cities across the region. The collection showcases their story through various artifacts, with the primary highlight being the Bronzi di Riace—two full-size bronze sculptures of bearded nude warriors cast between 460–430 BCE. These statues are held in a specialized room where visitors enter every 20 minutes to view them following a brief film.
Coastal Vistas and Heritage Sites
While the museum offers a deep dive into local history, the surrounding area provides several opportunities for exploration of the coastal landscape and architectural landmarks:
- Castello Aragonese: A 14th-century masonry shell offering expansive views over the city.
- Chiesa degli Ottimati: A neo-Byzantine structure standing near the castle.
- Santuario di Sant'Antonio: A Gothic-style basilica situated on Collina degli Angeli hill overlooking the town.
- Basilica dell'Eremo: Located east of the city center, this site serves as the starting point for the annual Madonna procession.
Coastal Experiences and Local Culture
Beyond the historical sites, you can experience the local lifestyle through these specific activities:
- Ride a conventional car-ferry across the Strait to experience the view from the deck.
- Stroll along the Lungomare Italo Falcomatà promenade or follow the pedestrianized Corso Garibaldi through the city's main squares.
- Attend a performance at Teatro Comunale Francesco Cilea, a neoclassical building seating 1,500 guests.
- Visit Lido Comunale for a day-pass to enjoy the northern beach.
Plan your visit to the Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia to ground your journey in the ancient history of the coast before exploring the nearby landmarks and coastline.