raggio Calabria ( South Italy) Calabria
Hi everyone! For this week's #WednesdayWalk, I want to take you to the very tip of the Italian peninsula: Reggio Calabria, in the heart of Southern Italy.
During my stroll today, I found myself standing before the imposing Castello Aragonese (Aragonese Castle). It’s one of the city's main symbols and a silent witness to centuries of Mediterranean history.
A Bit of History
The castle has ancient roots. While it is named "Aragonese" due to the major renovations ordered by King Ferdinand I of Aragon in 1458, its foundations date back much further—to the Byzantine era and perhaps even earlier. It has survived earthquakes, sieges, and urban changes, yet its massive cylindrical towers still stand tall against the deep blue Calabrian sky.
The Beauty in the Details
Walking around the perimeter, you can see the intricate stonework and the defensive structures that once protected this city. I also passed by a modern touch: a monument dedicated to the centenary of Rotary International (1905-2005), located right in the green area surrounding the fortress.
A Hidden Gem
What struck me the most during my walk is the contrast between the majesty of this site and its quiet atmosphere. Reggio Calabria has so much to offer, and this castle is a prime example. There is so much to see here for the few people who actually take the time to look. It’s a place that deserves to be discovered by more than just the locals.
If you ever find yourself in Southern Italy, don't just pass through to Sicily. Stop in Reggio, walk along the "most beautiful kilometer in Italy," and take a turn toward the Aragonese Castle. You won't regret it.
Thanks for joining me on my Wednesday Walk!