Santa Maria dell'Isola
Santuario di Santa Maria dell'Isola
A medieval sanctuary on a rock in the sea, gazing across the water at the clifftop old town. It is the symbol of Tropea.
Santa Maria dell'Isola stands on a huge rock that was once surrounded by the sea and is now joined to the beach. Its origins go back to a Byzantine-era hermitage in the Middle Ages; the building you see today was rebuilt in the 18th century. Climb the stairs cut into the rock to visit the small chapel. The garden behind it looks down over the beaches on either side and the cliffs of the old town, with superb views. The garden and small exhibition space charge a small entrance fee (about 3 euros). Walk from the old town down the steps to the beach and then on foot to reach it. The light is loveliest in the evening.
Opening hours
About 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. (extended in summer)
Nearby sights
- Tropea Belvedere (Affaccio)
- Tropea Cathedral
- Tropea Beach (Spiaggia della Rotonda)
- Tropea Old Town
- Michelino Beach
- Riaci Beach
- Zambrone & Paradiso del Sub
- Grotticelle Beach