Welcome to San Nicola Arcella, a charming village located on the northwestern coast of Calabria, nestled between the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the imposing majesty of the Pollino National Park.
Rooted in Achaean and Greek culture, this jewel of Southern Italy welcomes you to a delightful blend of past and present, offering a spectacle of colors, flavors, and scents that will make your visit unforgettable. Immersed in its history, the historic center of San Nicola Arcella will transport you through a labyrinth of alleys that hold ancient secrets and local traditions. Here, you can admire the authentic architecture and craftsmanship of local masters, including staircases and stone arches. You’ll surely notice the characteristic “supporti,” covered passages that connect parallel streets, offering a unique discovery experience.
The heart of the town is the picturesque Piazza A. Siciliano, long considered the starting point for exploring the wonders of San Nicola Arcella. Here, you can admire one of the four ancient fountains located in the historic part, a symbol of sharing and community life that has shaped the history of the village over the centuries.
Beyond its fascinating streets, San Nicola Arcella offers a myriad of places to discover. You can visit the 18th-century palace of the Princes Lanza di Trabia and the captivating Saracen tower known as “Torre Crawford.” The imposing “Arcomagno” and the scenic “Belvedere” will offer you breathtaking views of the Calabrian coast. Be sure not to miss the Church dedicated to San Nicola da Tolentino, a place of worship that embodies the spirituality and tradition of the community.
But San Nicola Arcella is not just history and culture; it’s also an oasis of tranquility reflected in its enchanting beaches. Its shores, washed by the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, have become one of Calabria’s most sought-after destinations, inviting visitors to enjoy moments of relaxation and immerse themselves in a natural landscape of extraordinary beauty.
Lastly, the historic center of San Nicola Arcella has been further enhanced by the artistic-cultural project “Sinapsi Urbane,” which narrates the millennia-old history of this land, enriching visitors’ experience with a touch of contemporary art.