What to see in Vibo Valentia, itinerary including the main monuments and places of interest, including the Norman Swabian Castle, the Cathedral and the Museum, as well as the ruins of Hipponion, an ancient city of Magna Graecia, and the Belvedere Grande.
Tourist information
In the past called Monteleone di Calabria, it took the name of Vibo Valentia from 1928 onwards.
The town is located on a plateau in a dominant position on the Gulf of Sant'Eufemia.
Numerous archaeological finds, concerning ancient pre-Hellenic civilizations, provide evidence of human settlements in the area since ancient times.
From the historic center, which has the typical medieval aspect, along alleys and stairways, you reach the Norman-Swabian castle, originally built by Roger the Norman, then reworked and enlarged by Frederick II and Charles II, using materials recovered from the temples that they were part of the acropolis of the ancient city of Hipponion.
What see
The Cathedral of Vibo Valentia or Church of Santa Maria Maggiore and San Leoluca, which dates back to the end of the seventeenth century, was erected in the same place where previously there was a previous Byzantine church of the ninth century.
The building is in Baroque style, with a facade flanked by two bell towers and an interior where a beautiful 16th century marble group is preserved, depicting the Madonna of the snow, as well as three statues by Antonello Gagini.
In the Museum of Sacred Art there are works of art from the Duomo and from private collections, including the Madonna and Child with San Luca, by Cagini, and some bronze sculptures.
Just outside the town, it is worth visiting the ruins of the Greek city of Hipponion, consisting mainly of the remains of the imposing walls.
Continuing, it is possible to reach the Belvedere Grande, which offers a beautiful panorama.
