Ruffo di Scilla Castle, Scilla, Italy

Located on the Scilla promontory, towards the Strait of Messina, the castle also known as Castello Ruffo di Calabria, is a legacy of rare beauty. It represents the genius loci of the city of Scilla, about 20 km from Reggio Calabria and its history started in the Etruscan era. Scilla is completely isolated and right next to the sea, the ideal lookout location to protect the Calabrian lands from whoever arrives by sea.

The history of the Calabrian fortifications inevitably leads us to the Saracen invasion period. However, the Castello Ruffo di Scilla has ancient roots: first the Etruscans, then the defensive walls in the period of Magna Graecia. Even the Romans, who expanded it, found here the perfect place to settle. The modern excavations show us only the walls of the monastery of San Pancrazio, from the 9th century, also a defence against the Saracens. It is no coincidence that in 1060 it became a military fortress and in 1808 state-own property. A place of defence but also of suggestive beauty. A heritage to protect. This is why since the 1970s it has been a meeting place for people and cultures: first as a Youth Hostel and now as a very important cultural centre, a venue for meetings and exhibitions.

References:

turismo.reggiocal.it

User Reviews

Tara Seehofer (2 months ago)
cool view from the top of the castle in order to see the town and il mare

Massimino Malacrino (2 months ago)
One of the wonders of the world ! Truly is a place to visit ! It’s a must ! When you get to the top you over look the beautiful fishing village of scilla what a view ! The castle is amazing with history to see telling the story ! Truly is beautiful inside & out ! 2 euros to get in as well ! Staff are amazing & helpful ! You can walk up there which is trek through the old streets . Drive up or you can get a lift up there for a small fee from the beech !

Hans (5 months ago)
Beautiful place in South Italy, Calabria. The castle is situated at the opposite of the magnificent old town of Scilla. Worth a visit

Michalina Kosakowska (12 months ago)
A small but interesting castle with beautiful views. Admission is not expensive, as it costs €2. It is a place where you can certainly get some peace and quiet, but also observe the surroundings from the walls. I recommend :)

David Lewis (20 months ago)
Beautiful castle on the sea. We did not have time to go up on top but what we were able to see was great. This little out of the way town is one of the best kept secrets in all of Europe. We always enjoy finding places like this off the beaten path

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