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 Introduction
Along the sandy beach people absorb the rays, but along the coasts discoveries of hidden grottos can be made. From May to October excursions by boat can be made to the various grottos in nearby cliffs and lidos. The Grotta del Saraceno has a natural pool facing it and the “Scorzone” reef and marvelous Grotta dell'Arcomagno lead to an astonishing beautiful stretch of coastline.
All these wonderful daytime activities are eclipsed at nightfall as the town turns its eye to being one of the Cedri Riviera's most chic “see and be seen” night scenes. Dining in the town is composed of sea-food and pasta dishes that are on par with fine dining. The local fisherman of the area catch fresh Mediterranean fish each day of the year to be used in the numerous restaurants.
Arrival Plane
Airport Lamezia Terme is the major airport of the region. Sainte Anne's Airport is the smaller local airport that is served by Air One and charter airlines. The number for Sainte Anne's is: +39.0962.794388.
Train
The town is accessed by FF.SS Maratea, Praia - Ajeta - Tortora, Scalea - Santa Domanica Talao, located on the Naples - Reggio Calabria line. The town has its own stop on these lines.
Car
From the north: take the exit of “Salerno-Reggio Calabria” in the Lagonegro north direction, then drive along the highway Lagonegro-Praia a Mare and continue to San Nicola Arcella.
From the South: leave the Salerno-Reggio Calabria in Falerna and continue on the highway (SS18) in the direction of Paola. Follow sign to San Nicola Arcella.
History and Culture
A fortress was built to protect the early Roman town, but continuous assaults of internal populations led to many violent conflicts. Refugees from Scalea arrived in the 400s and 500s and the construction of an urban centre began. In 700, then Prince Peter Lanza Branciforte, re-established the old roman fortress and constructed a proper castle.
Fishermen and farmers thrived in the town and life centered around the church. Construction of the church made jobs and enforced a sense of community. This sense of togetherness paired with the natural beauty of the area has allowed San Nicola to become one of the most exclusive tourist centres of Calabria.
Churches and Museums
One of the most impressive churches of the area lies in this small town. The architecture is typically Romanesque-Gothic with interior decoration of frescoes from the Byzantine era.
Church of San Giovanni
Situated next to the castle, this church has an alter from 1789 that reveals wood-work carvings which predate 1600.
Church of San Nicoal da Tolentino
Constructed in the 17th century, this church is notable for its elaborate ceiling decoration and wood carved statues which are estimated to date back to the 16th century.
Museum
This small museum covers some of the history of San Nicola and the surrounding region. It is only open for the summer and is closed during the rest of the year.
Historical buildings and Monuments
The tower is known by the locals as “Torre Crawford” because of the famous American novelist Francis Marion Crawford who is said to have fallen in love with the myth of a princess who was kept by enemies in the tower. Away from her one true love, she died of heart break. Crawford set many of his romance and ghost stories in the town of San Nicola. This mythology is reinforced by the village legend that visitors can travel to the tower at night and hear the cries of the princess.
Castle
The castle was built by Prince Pietro Lanza Braciforte for his bride Eleonora Spinelli in the 14th century. Since that time, numerous noble families in the area have inhabited it. Some of the building has been run-down, but its importance to the area throughout history is commemorated outside.
Streets and Squares
San Nicola has a lively piazza where the old buildings are colourfully decorated.
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San Nicola Arcella Travel Guide
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