Weekend in Catanzaro

Single-arch concrete bridge spanning 140 metres, designed by Riccardo Morandi. Offers one of the best city views.

Tip: Walk across on foot at sunset – the light on the stone arches is dramatic. Watch for traffic; no dedicated pedestrian lane.

A Norman-era cathedral rebuilt in the 16th century after earthquake damage. The main draw is the crypt with a 6th-century Byzantine mosaic floor. Plain facade, but inside you get a

Tip: Go around midday when the crypt light hits the mosaic best. The bell tower climb costs €2 but gives panoramic views.

Large terraced park with fountains, statues, and panoramic terraces overlooking the Gulf of Squillace.

Tip: Bring binoculars – the view stretches to the sea on clear days. Best in late spring when the flowerbeds are out.

Art gallery and library in a 19th-century palazzo, hosting rotating exhibitions of contemporary and local artists.

Tip: Check their Facebook page for temporary exhibits – photography shows and ceramics often pop up. Quiet, good for reading.

A 15th-century Franciscan church with a quiet cloister. Inside, a wooden crucifix and fresco fragments from the 1500s. The real charm is the courtyard — worn fountain, orange trees, hardly any tourist

Tip: Knock on the door of the adjacent convent office if the church is locked — they usually let you in. The cloister is free, though they accept small donations.

Collection of historic carriages, sedan chairs, and horse-drawn vehicles from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Tip: Free entry only on the first Sunday of the month. Other days it’s €4, still good value. Allow 45 minutes.

A dramatic single-arch concrete bridge completed in 1960, spanning the Fiumarella valley. At 125m high, it was once the tallest arch bridge in Europe. You walk across for free — the drop is vertigo-in

Tip: Best view is from the Parco della Biodiversità (opposite hillside) or from the road down in the valley. Walk it early morning before traffic picks up.

Small free museum dedicated to rock and pop memorabilia — vinyl, posters, instruments from Italian and international artists. Housed in a former church. Not huge, but genuine passi

Tip: Check their Facebook before visiting — hours can be erratic. The curated thematic exhibitions (e.g., Pink Floyd or Italian prog) change every few months.

11th-century Norman cathedral reconstructed in Baroque style, housing a notable silver crucifix and Gothic portal.

Tip: Visit late afternoon when the light hits the rose window. The crypt is worth a look but check if it's open on the day.

A large urban park on a hill with themed gardens (mediterranean scrub, olive grove, rose garden). Has modern art installations, a small lake, and sweeping views over the Gulf of Sq

Tip: Best at sunset for the light on the sea. Bring water in summer — little shade on the upper paths. Free entry, but the botanical museum inside costs €3.