Tropea
Perched on a cliff of golden stone that plunges into a turquoise sea, Tropea is the jewel of the Calabrian Tyrrhenian coast, a town that seems made for adventure. You wander narrow lanes and noble palaces, lean out from sudden terraces, and all at once, down there, you see it: the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola, a church standing alone upon its rock, with Stromboli smoking on the horizon on clear days.
Available maps
Stops to discover
Largo Galluppi
It all begins here, where the old town breathes: a square scented with sea air and ancient tales. Elena opens her grandfather's diary, and the hunt is on.
Belvedere Piazza del Cannone
The Tyrrhenian wind sweeps the terrace and an old cannon still stands guard. From up here, Grandpa's diary reveals the first name of the legend.
Cattedrale di Maria SS. di Romania
Where the sea smells of salt and the bell tower's shadow watches over the square stands the Cathedral of Maria SS. di Romania.
Museo Civico Diocesano
Among paintings, monstrances and vestments, a silver shape makes Elena gasp: grandfather's lantern truly exists.
Affaccio del Corso
Where the Corso ends, the sky begins: the terrace opens onto the sea like the prow of a ship.
Spiaggia della Rotonda
Climb down to Rotonda Beach: pale sand waits beneath the cliff, and Grandpa's final note hides among the caves on the left.
Santuario di Santa Maria dell'Isola
Here is where the sea kisses the church: the rock of Santa Maria dell'Isola.