Reggio di Calabria is a bustling port city located on the toe of Italy′s boot-shaped peninsula. The port is an important gateway to Sicily and offers easy access to many of the island′s most popular destinations. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Reggio di Calabria is a must-see destination for anyone visiting southern Italy. Whether you′re looking to explore ancient ruins, sample traditional Italian cuisine, or simply soak up the Mediterranean sun, the port of Reggio di Calabria is the perfect starting point for your journey.
Have you ever wondered what the southernmost port in Italy is? Look no further than the port of Reggio-di-Calabria. Located in the toe of Italy's boot, this port serves as a gateway to the region of Calabria and beyond.
Reggio-di-Calabria, also known simply as Reggio, has been an important port since ancient times. Its strategic location on the Strait of Messina, the narrow channel separating Italy from Sicily, has made it a hub for trade and travel for thousands of years. The port was a key center of activity during the Magna Graecia period, when Greek colonies were established in southern Italy. Today, it remains a vital economic and cultural center for the region.
The port of Reggio-di-Calabria has two main terminals: the commercial port and the tourist port. The commercial port is used for the import and export of goods, while the tourist port caters to recreational vessels and passenger ferries. The tourist port is located in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible for visitors arriving by sea. From here, visitors can explore the city's many historic sites, including the Aragonese Castle and the National Archaeological Museum.
The port of Reggio-di-Calabria is also an important transportation hub for those traveling to and from Sicily. Passenger ferries operate regularly between Reggio and the city of Messina, located just across the strait. The short journey takes approximately 20 minutes, providing a convenient way to travel between the two regions.
In addition to its role as a transportation hub, the port of Reggio-di-Calabria is a popular destination for cruise ships. Many Mediterranean cruises include a stop in this charming port city, giving passengers the opportunity to explore the city's rich history and culture.
Overall, the port of Reggio-di-Calabria is an important gateway to southern Italy, offering easy access to the region of Calabria and beyond. Whether you're arriving by sea or departing on a cruise, this historic port has something to offer for everyone.
Reggio di Calabria, a port city situated at the southern tip of Italy, is steeped in history and mythology. The town has been an important trading center and a hub of cultural exchange since ancient times. The city's port, nestled between the mountains and the sea, has played a significant role in the town's fortunes, as well as in the mythologies of the region.
According to one legend, the ancient Greek hero Heracles founded the city of Reggio di Calabria. The story goes that while Heracles was on his way back from completing his twelve labors, he stopped in the Strait of Messina to rest. While there, he had a vision of a beautiful city that he would one day found. He decided to call the city Rhegion and set out to make his vision a reality. Heracles built a temple to honor his father, Zeus, at the site where the city now stands.
Another legend has it that the mythical figure of Scylla, a sea monster with six heads and twelve legs, once terrorized the waters around Reggio di Calabria. Scylla was once a beautiful nymph, but she was transformed into a monster by the sorceress Circe, who was jealous of Scylla's beauty. In her new form, Scylla terrorized sailors who passed through the Strait of Messina. To protect themselves from her wrath, sailors began to offer sacrifices to her, which they would cast into the sea near the town of Scilla, just across from Reggio di Calabria.
Despite its mythical origins, Reggio di Calabria's port has played a significant role in the region's history and continues to do so today. The city's strategic location has made it an important center of commerce, culture, and transportation, connecting the Mediterranean with the rest of the world. As visitors and locals alike gaze out at the shimmering waters of the port, it's hard not to imagine the ancient gods and monsters that once ruled these waters, and the heroes who sought to tame them.
