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 Introduction
Briatico is known as the bathing center of the Costa degli Dei (coast of gods). Close to Tropea, the beautiful city presents some lovely ancient wonders along with opportunities to enjoy luxuries of this century in a small town.
Arrival Plane
Airport Lamezia Terme is the major airport in the area. From here, travelers can take a taxi, rent a car, or take the railway to reach the town.
Train
Briatico has a stop on the main lines running through the region.
Car
Take the E45 (Salerno-Reggio) motorway and exit at Pizzo. Next take the SS 522 to Tropea and follow road signs onto Briatico.
History and Culture
Feudo of the Ruffos took possession of the city in the 17th century and remained there till 1806. A huge earthquake in 1783 destroyed much of the town, but it was reconstructed in much of the same plan as it was before. Much care was put into preserving and re-resurrecting the medieval castle, remainders of the walls, and the churches. Of the remains, two towers that were part of the anti-Turkish defensive system are the most important historically.
Briatico remains an important center for agricultural and fishing. There are sugar cane plantations in addition to other traditional Italian crops. Recently the art of working with terracotta has been revived. Many tools in flint glass and obsidian, as well as a vase with within human remains have been uncovered in recent years which offer more understanding into pre-historic Southern Italy in the Age of Copper.
Churches and Museums
Founded by the Normans in the XI century, the building was almost completely destroyed by the earthquake of 1783. Inside there once lay the 17th century statue of “Our Lady Immaculate” (known as Santa Maria del Knee in ancient times).
Historical Buildings and Monuments
The most important tourist sight of Briatico is the defensive towers. “La Rocchetta” was originally built by the Greeks, re-built by the Romans, and then restructured during the Middle Ages. Repairs were made after the earthquake. The tower was part of the ruined castle and rises out of the beach.
The other tower is the 16th century Saracen tower. The tower of Sant'Irene was erected by the government deputy of the Royal Spanish as a look-out against intruders from the sea.
Beaches, Parks and Gardens
Briatico's beaches are famous for their white sand, deep clean sea, and picturesque rocky, wild coasts. The beaches are rated as some of the best in Italy and certainly one of the best in the region. The town partly faces the Gulf of Lamezia Terme, offering suggestive views in the full-moon nights of the Eolie Islands, and enchanting sunsets.
Punta Safò
This archeological zone has been explored extensively over recent years and many interesting finds have been unearthed. It is a narrow, tapering piece of land projecting into the water, but has enlightened many historians about ancient life in the area.
Santa Irene
This small island can be seen from the beach, but is accessible only by swimming or boating. It lies about a hundred meters from the shore.
Links
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Briatico Travel Guide
Single room - From 80€
Single room - From 35€
Double room - From 70€