Badolato still retains the authentic character of old southern Italy. Here you will find dozens of churches, historic palaces, remains of fortifications and magnificent views of the coast. The town is divided into two parts - the historic Badolato Superiore on the hill and the more modern Badolato Marina by the sea.
The historic part of the town(Badolato Superiore) is situated on a hill above the coast. It is here that the oldest part of the town is located, with narrow streets, stone houses and small squares. In this part of town you can also see the remains of a medieval castle that once protected the inhabitants from raids from the coast.
However, like many other towns in Calabria, Badolato has been hit by earthquakes and natural disasters in the past, which have damaged some of the historic buildings. Nevertheless, an extraordinary number of historic buildings have been preserved.
Churches and historical monuments of Badolato
Badolato is known for its exceptionally high number of religious buildings. In a relatively small area there are more than a dozen churches and chapels that document the religious and cultural history of the town.
Chiesa di San Lorenzo
The dominant feature of the town is the Church of St Lawrence (Chiesa di San Lorenzo), which was built in the 15th century. Inside the church there are valuable frescoes, statues and historical works of art.
Chiesa dell'Immacolata
Another very important religious building is the Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary - Chiesa dell'Immacolata. This church is one of the most impressive Baroque buildings in the city.
The interior is decorated with rich decorations, altars and works of art dedicated to the cult of the Virgin Mary. The church is an important venue for local religious festivities, especially during the December celebration of the Feast of the Immacolata.
Other important religious monuments include:
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The 18th centuryChiesa di San Nicola
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Chiesa di San Giorgio with its characteristic bell tower
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several smaller chapels scattered around the historic centre
It is the multitude of churches that gives Badolato its unique character and has earned it the nickname "city of churches".
Palazzo Barone
Another important historical building is the Palazzo Barone, a majestic noble residence from the 17th century. The palace was the seat of the prominent Barone family and is still one of the most architecturally interesting buildings in the city. The surrounding area offers beautiful views of the hilly landscape of Calabria and the Ionian Sea.
Badolato Marina
About 3 kilometres from the historic centre is the seaside area of Badolato Marina. Unlike the medieval hilltop town, this is a more modern resort with long beaches on the Ionian Sea.
Badolato Marina is a popular place for summer holidays. Here you will find beaches, restaurants, cafes and accommodation, while the historic hilltop centre offers an authentic atmosphere of old Calabria.
Tips for excursions in the area
There are many interesting tourist attractions to visit around Badolato and the Calabria region. You should not miss these places:
1. Soverato: Located just a short drive from Badolato, this is a popular resort on the Ionian Sea. It has beautiful beaches, restaurants, bars and a lively atmosphere.
2. Tropea: This picturesque seaside town is about an hour's drive from Badolato. It is famous for its stunning beaches, including the famous Spiaggia di Tropea beach, and its beautiful historic centre.
3. Pizzo: Pizzo is another picturesque seaside town in Calabria that is well worth a visit. It is famous for its traditional Italian atmosphere and the famous dessert"Tartufo di Pizzo" - ice cream cake.
4. Sila National Park: this national park offers breathtaking nature, mountain lakes and forests. It is ideal for hiking, mountain biking and wildlife watching.
5. Stilo: The picturesque town of Stilo is famous for its Byzantine Cattolica di Stilo Cathedral, which dates back to the 9th century. It is a fascinating place for history and architecture lovers.
6. Riace Bronzes. These bronze statues depict Greek warriors and are among the most important art treasures in Italy.
7. Catanzaro: The eponymous capital of the province of Catanzaro is worth a visit for its historic centre, fortress and beautiful views of the Ionian coast.
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