Catanzaro is a historic city on the Ionian Sea, and in the past also an important port where trade was carried out with the eastern Mediterranean. A lot of historical buildings have been preserved in its center.
In the past, Catanzaro was known as an important center of the silk trade from Byzantium. Merchant ships sailing across the Mediterranean passed through the port situated in a small bay. The greatest development of the city took place in the Middle Ages. Later, the alteration of trade routes due to geographical discoveries caused a stagnation.
The local monuments are a reminder of Catanzaro's glorious past. Many churches have been preserved in the Old Town, including the cathedral built in the 12th century by the Normans, the Byzantine Church of Sant'Omobono and the Church of Santissimo Rosario with a Renaissance façade. You can also see the ruins of a Norman castle and many representative tenement houses from different eras.
The coast between Catanzaro and Soverato is extremely attractive to tourists. There are sandy beaches with many amenities. The region is known as a holiday destination for young people due to its rich nightlife, numerous discos, clubs and bars.
