Taureana between Archaeology and Coast

Taureana between Plateau and Coast

Taureana combines an archaeologically significant elevated area with a flat, sandy coastal section. The Parco Archeologico dei Tauriani is located on the rocky plateau of a promontory that lies about 70 m above sea level. Below the plateau of Taureana, a flat, sandy coastal section stretches to the border of the Petrace. The rocky terrain and sandy coast give the area two distinctly different landscape impressions. If you choose a hotel in Taureana, you can weigh up cultural themes, coastal scenery and destinations in the surrounding area as different focal points of your stay.

Archaeological Traces on the Plateau

In the western area of the Taureana plateau lies a Bronze Age settlement dating from the 17th to the 11th century BC. The Parco Archeologico dei Tauriani includes a circular event building that was probably able to accommodate up to 3,000 spectators. The visitor route through the Parco Archeologico dei Tauriani is marked with information panels. The settlement, event building and visitor route thus provide three distinct points of interest for your tour.

In the Parco Archeologico dei Tauriani, the paving of the ancient city street made of blocks of hard local stone has been preserved. Six art sculptures made of blocks of white marble are also located there. The Casa del Mosaico contains an opus vermiculatum mosaic depicting a bear hunt. The Cripta di San Fantino is a Roman-era building that was used as the saint's burial place from the 4th century onwards and later as a place of worship. It preserves geometric and religious frescoes dated to the mid-11th century.

A Festival Connected with the Sea

A distinct seasonal connection is created by the Maria Santissima dell'Alto Mare festival. It takes place annually on the last Sunday in July in Taureana and includes a procession of the Madonna statue on the sea. The July date adds a religious tradition with a maritime connection to the history of the plateau and offers you a clear temporal reference point for planning your trip.

Beaches, Viewpoints and Museums in the Surrounding Area

In the immediate vicinity of Taureana is Spiaggia Di Palmi, a beach. Also nearby are the Museo Archeologico Metauros, a museum; Caletta Rovaglioso Scogliera Porto Oreste, a viewpoint; Spiaggia Costa Viola, a beach; Ulivarella, a beach; Torre delle Pietre Nere, a monument; and Spiaggia Gioia Tauro, a beach. Mount St Elia, a viewpoint, is also located in the surrounding area of Taureana.

More Destinations for Planning Your Trip

If you would like to combine Taureana with other places in the region, continue on to these destinations: Gioiosa Ionica, Bivongi, Riace Marina, San Roberto, Delianuova, Bocale, Benestare and San Luca.

For the overarching travel overview: Reggio Calabria.