Copanello: Rocky Landscape, Sea and History

Copanello between Two Areas

Copanello is divided into two areas: Copanello Lido and Copanello Alta. When choosing a hotel or other accommodation, you can base your further considerations on the interests you associate with Copanello: the rocky coast and marine protected area, or the historic routes, buildings and surroundings of Stalettì. The place names help you organise excursions and sightseeing according to their geographical context.

Rocky Sea off Copanello

The Fondali di Stalettì marine protected area lies off Copanello’s rocky promontory. It covers the seabed between the 5- and 30-metre depth contours. The rocky seabed forms small promontories, coves, islets and cliffs. The area also includes a bay rich in caves, further coves and archaeological evidence. Those interested in coastal landforms, underwater landscapes and the connection between nature and history will find a clearly defined focal point of the town here.

Water Sites and Historical Evidence

The Vasche di Cassiodoro in Copanello offer a special connection between the sea and the past. These are fish-farming pools carved into the rock; seawater is naturally renewed through narrow openings. The pools were part of the Vivarium complex, which also included the so-called Villa degli Aurelii, a property of the family of Cassiodorus from the Roman imperial period. In the hamlet of Coscia di Stalettì (Catanzaro), near the resort of Copanello, lies the historic Arethusa spring, or Fonte di Cassiodoro, which is associated with the Cassiodorean tradition. At the Vasche di Cassiodoro, visitors can bathe between granite rocks and swim in the clear water in front of the cliff.

Historic Routes and Fortified Architecture

The section of the Via Grande that is visible today begins in Copanello Lido near the bridge over the Alessi River and leads uphill to the historic centre of Stalettì. The Casino Pepe is also located along the historic sightseeing route from Copanello to the historic centre. The former fortified residence of the Lucifero family is a significant example of fortified residential architecture. For planning your day, this thematic area offers a transition from the coastal landscape to historic routes and built heritage.

The Cammino di Cassiodoro

Those who consider a broader cultural and natural context will come across the Cammino di Cassiodoro. The archaeological hiking route is approximately 52 kilometres long, has a historical, religious and nature-focused orientation, and extends along the Ionian coast and through the inland hill landscapes of the municipalities of Borgia, Squillace and Stalettì. It is divided into three main stages. The approximate route length and the three main stages provide a separate planning framework for a hike.

More Destinations

More destinations: Soverato Marina, Curinga, Satriano, Badolato, Borgia, Gasperina, Marina Di Davoli and Badolato Marina.

To the higher-level travel overview: Catanzaro.