Tourist Guide to Squillace

History and Atmosphere of Squillace

Squillace is a municipality in the province of Catanzaro, in the Calabria region of Italy. Its name derives from the Greek "Skylakos," meaning "place of stone." The history of Squillace dates back to the Greek era, when it was an important commercial and cultural center. In the Middle Ages, the town was conquered by the Normans and later by the Saracens. Today, Squillace is a place of great natural and cultural beauty, with a unique and welcoming atmosphere.

What to See in Squillace

Squillace is a place rich in history and culture, with many monuments and attractions to visit. Here are some of the main sights:

• Norman-Swabian Castle: a majestic castle built by the Normans in the 12th century, offering a spectacular view of the town and the valley.
• Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta: a beautiful Gothic church built in the 14th century, with a decorated façade and an interior rich in frescoes.
• Archaeological Museum: a museum housing a vast collection of archaeological finds, including ceramics, sculptures, and coins.

Where to Eat in Squillace

Squillace is famous for its traditional cuisine, based on fresh, local ingredients. Here are some specialties to try:

• Pasta alla Norma: pasta with eggplant, tomato, and salted ricotta, a classic of Calabrian cuisine.
• Chicken Cacciatore: chicken cooked with tomato, onions, and mushrooms, served with potatoes and vegetables.
• Arancini: fried rice balls stuffed with meat, cheese, and sauce, served as a snack or appetizer.

Where to Stay in Squillace

Squillace offers various accommodation options, from tourist facilities to Bed and Breakfasts and farm stays. Here are some of the best options:

• Hotel La Bella Vita: a 4-star hotel with comfortable rooms and a spectacular view of the town.
• B&B La Casa dei Sogni: a Bed and Breakfast with cozy rooms and a breakfast featuring local products.
• Agriturismo La Quercia: a farm stay with rooms and apartments, a garden, and a restaurant serving traditional local cuisine.

Events, Festivals, and Food Fairs in Squillace

Squillace is a place rich in events and festivities throughout the year. Here are some of the main celebrations:

• Feast of San Giorgio: a festival held on April 23rd, featuring processions, concerts, and fireworks.
• Feast of Madonna della Neve: a festival held on August 5th, with processions, concerts, and a fair.
• Chestnut Festival: a food fair held in October, with tastings of chestnuts and local products.

Photographs and Postcards from Squillace

Squillace offers many photo opportunities, with its medieval architecture, wild nature, and rich culture. Here are some of the best shots to take:

• The view of the town from the Norman-Swabian Castle.
• The façade of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
• The wild nature of the valley.

Nearby Squillace

Squillace is located in an area rich in history and culture, with many destinations to visit nearby. Here are some of the main places to explore:

The city of Catanzaro, the provincial capital, is just a few kilometers from Squillace and offers a spectacular view of the town and the valley. The city of Reggio Calabria, the regional capital, is about an hour's drive from Squillace and offers a breathtaking view of the Strait of Messina. The city of Tropea, one of the most beautiful in Calabria, is about an hour and a half's drive from Squillace and offers a stunning view of the coast and the sea. The city of Pizzo, an ancient medieval town, is about an hour and a half's drive from Squillace and offers a spectacular view of the town and the valley.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)