Located on the Costa degli Dei - the 'Coast of the Gods' - is
the incredible seaside resort of Tropea, one of the true gems of
Calabria. The Old Town of Tropea is extraordinary - it stands on
the cliff tops looking out of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The buildings on
the headland edge right up to the cliff face, seemingly extending
the height of the cliffs to reach the roof tops. Behind, a maze of
twisting lanes and narrow alleyways wind between beautiful, 18th
century palazzi, their impeccable façades faded by the sun, their
walls built on the ancient foundations of structures which stood
there before them.
Over the course of history, Calabria has seen the rise and fall
of empires, as well as its fair share of earthquakes, which have
defined, shaped and changed the look of Tropea. Many of the town's
houses are built from the rubble and remains of ancient and
medieval structures which fell, or were felled, over the ages.
Between the buildings on the cliff front of Tropea are several
'punti di visto' - public viewing balconies which offer wonderful
views of the coastline and out towards the volcanic island of
Stromboli, one of the world's most active volcanos which erupts
almost continuously on the far side of the island.