The DOMUS ALBÆ guide
Tropea
pearl of the
Mediterranean
The origins
The "Coast of the Gods"
Tropea's origins are wrapped in legend: tradition has it founded 500 years before Rome, when it was still called Portercole. The story goes that Hercules himself founded it, while searching for the Golden Fleece with the Argonauts — hence the name "Coast of the Gods" that still accompanies these shores today. Historical theories instead point to Scipio Africanus, on his way back from conquering Carthage in 209 BC: the name would derive from the Latin Tropaeum, trophy, in tribute to the gods who protected him in war.
The dream beaches
Crystal-clear water, each one different from the next
- Spiaggia della Rotonda — the beating heart of Tropea's most iconic beaches
- Spiaggia della Linguata ↗ — one of the widest and most welcoming
- Spiaggia del Convento ↗ — a corner of paradise dominated by its church
- Spiaggia del Cannone — the most intimate and least crowded on the coast
- Paradiso del Sub ↗ — in Zambrone, breathtaking views within walking distance of the station
- Spiaggia Michelino ↗ — in Parghelia, 210 steps for an unforgettable view
The treasures not to miss
Getting lost in the vineje
Tropea's most fascinating character lives in its narrow alleyways, the vineje (singular vineja, in dialect). Exploring them on foot, unhurried, remains the best way to discover the town.
Beyond Tropea
Three easy day trips
- Bronzi di Riace ↗ — two Greek statues from the 5th century BC, at the Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria, ~1h30 by train.
- Isole Eolie ↗ — a volcanic archipelago with Stromboli and Vulcano, reachable by mini-cruise.
- Pizzo Calabro ↗ — a clifftop town, home to Castello Murat and the famous Tartufo di Pizzo.
Flavours of Calabria
A culinary journey
Chilli, 'nduja, flavourful cheeses — and the sweet Red Onion of Tropea, star of salads, sauces and even jams. A few places we recommend from personal experience:
- Ristorante Pizzeria Mare Grande ↗ — below the sanctuary, private beach — 10% off with the business card you'll find at the apartment
- Porta Vaticana ↗ — in Piazza del Cannone
- Ristorante Il Portale ↗ — in Parghelia, elegant atmosphere
- Gelateria Donna Maria ↗
- Pasticceria Da Paolo ↗
- Bar Pepè ↗ — in Parghelia — the best granita
- Gelateria Ercole ↗ — in Pizzo, home of the Tartufo
This guide is just a small taste of what Calabria has to offer. Enjoy discovering it!