Exploring Reggio di Calabria: Local Culture & Traditions

Explore Reggio di Calabria: Local Culture & Traditions

Reggio di Calabria, often referred to simply as Reggio, is a charming city located on the toe of Italy's boot. It is a city rich in culture and traditions, offering visitors a unique experience. From its beautiful coastline to its historical landmarks and delicious cuisine, Reggio di Calabria has something for everyone.

Discover the Local Culture

The people of Reggio di Calabria are known for their warm hospitality. They take great pride in their city and its heritage, and are always eager to share their traditions with visitors. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is to attend one of the many festivals held throughout the year.

The Feast of Saint George is one of the most important religious festivals in Reggio di Calabria. It takes place on April 23rd every year and is celebrated with processions, music, and fireworks. Another notable festival is the Feast of Our Lady of Consolation, which occurs on September 4th. It is a vibrant event that showcases the city's devotion to the Virgin Mary.

While exploring the city, be sure to visit the Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia, which houses a remarkable collection of ancient Greek artifacts. The museum offers insights into the city's past and its ties to Magna Graecia, the Greek colonies that once thrived in southern Italy.

Experience Local Traditions

Reggio di Calabria is known for its traditional folk music and dance. The Tarantella is a lively dance performed to the sound of traditional instruments such as the tambourine and accordion. You can often catch performances of the Tarantella in the city's squares or during festivals.

Another important tradition in Reggio di Calabria is the making of Bergamot liqueur. The city is famous for its production of this aromatic liqueur, which is made from the rind of the Bergamot orange. You can learn about the production process and sample the liqueur at local distilleries.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

No visit to Reggio di Calabria is complete without savoring its delicious cuisine. The city is renowned for its fresh seafood, with dishes such as swordfish, anchovies, and mussels being local favorites. You can enjoy these dishes at the many seafood restaurants along the promenade.

Reggio di Calabria is also known for its traditional pasta dishes, such as maccarruni, a type of handmade pasta served with meat sauce. Other must-try dishes include 'nduja, a spicy spreadable salami, and baccalà, salted cod cooked in various ways.

Getting Around Reggio di Calabria

Reggio di Calabria is a compact city that can be easily explored on foot. However, if you prefer, you can also use the local bus network to get around. Public transportation is reliable and affordable, with buses serving all major attractions and neighborhoods.

For those who enjoy cycling, the city offers a bike-sharing program called BikeMi. You can rent a bike for a few hours or a full day and explore the city at your own pace.

Conclusion

Reggio di Calabria is a hidden gem in southern Italy, offering a mix of historical landmarks, vibrant traditions, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're strolling along the promenade, exploring ancient Greek artifacts, or enjoying traditional folk music and dance, there is no shortage of experiences to be had in this captivating city.

Prepare to be enchanted by Reggio di Calabria and its rich culture and traditions!