Attractions and Places To See around Cardinale - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cardinale, a town in Southern Italy's Calabria region, offer a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated in the hilly area of the Preserre and the Serre Regional Natural Park, the region features picturesque landscapes. Visitors can explore ancient churches, historic castles, and serene sanctuaries. The area is known for its hazelnut groves and the Ancinale Valley.
Best attractions and places to see around Cardinale
- The most popular attraction is Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, a religious building that marks the site of the first monastery from 1084. This historical site is known for its primitive and rustic construction, built to withstand the weight of snow.
- Another must-see spot is San Bruno Pond, a lake and natural monument. This pond is dedicated to Saint Bruno and recalls a legend of him praying in the water.
- Visitors also love Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, a religious building surrounded by ancient firs and beech trees. This sanctuary is a major tourist and religious attraction where Saint Bruno of Cologne spent the last ten years of his life.
- Cardinale is known for its religious sites, historical landmarks, and natural landscapes. These things to do in Cardinale Calabria offer a variety of experiences for visitors.
- The attractions around Cardinale are appreciated by the komoot community, with 43 upvotes and 19 photos shared by explorers.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno
Highlight • Religious Site
The Charterhouse of Santo Stefano
The first monastery was in the Dauphiné, a region on the western slope of the Alps, southwest of Savoy, near the present city of Grenoble, in the summer of 1084, for the feast of John the Baptist, in a mountainous and wooded area, at 1175 m .above sea level, in the heart of the massif called "Cartusia" in Bruno's time, hence the Italian name "Certosa" and the French name "Chartreuse".
The construction work started immediately and progressed quickly. In fact, the main part had to be completed before the start of winter. The cells for the hermits were built around a spring and had to resemble the huts of shepherds and woodcutters: primitive and rustic construction, but fairly solid. In fact, they had to withstand the weight of snow from year to year. At first, each house (or cell) housed two monks, probably to save time and funds; Only later did each loner have his own cell.
The church was the only stone building: a sine qua non for its consecration, which took place on September 2, 1085 for the service of Bishop Ugo and under the patronage of Our Lady and the Baptist. Today, on the site where the cells of the first Carthusians once stood, there is a chapel called "Chapel of San Bruno" and another dedicated to the Madonna called "Madonna di Casalibus". The life of those first fathers of the Gran Certosa is known to us through the testimonies of the writer Guigo in the life of Saint Hugh and the traveler Guiberto di Nogent, from which, adding some information contained in the "Customs" of Guigo and some important ones phrases of the letters of Saint Bruno, Venerable and Saint Bernard create a picturesque image of fervor, rigor and the authentic monastic spirit. Bishop Hugo gave them every security, protecting them in any dispute with neighbors and allowing Bruno and his family full ownership of the Chartreuse desert. The new loners could then live there completely separated from the world in a legally untouchable retreat that only formed the outer framework of an existence in which the essentials were elsewhere. Saint Bruno displayed paternal care for his brothers and a sense of balance and measure that made him say to his own, perhaps too fervently, as is customary for beginners: "If the bow is constantly stretched, it loosens and becomes for less suitable for his task". Instead, when he stayed too long with the monks for solitude's sake, his friend Hugh reminded the Bishop of Grenoble of the duties of his ministry: "Go to your sheep". Seeing the beautiful cliffs covered with snow and glowing in the sun, he let his deep and contemplative heart expand his habitual prayer of admiration and adoration of the Creator: "O goodness of God!".
Text / Source: Serra San Bruno
visitserrasanbruno.it/visitare-serra-san-bruno/la-certosa-di-santo-stefano
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Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco
Highlight • Religious Site
Surrounded by centuries-old silver firs and young beech trees, the complex of the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Bosco is the site of the largest tourist and religious attraction in the Serra San Bruno.
In the summer, tens of thousands of visitors relax in the places where he spent the last ten years of his life and where Saint Bruno of Cologne died.
The church of Santa Maria della Torre, consecrated by the Archbishop of Palermo in 1094, gave way to the small sanctuary of Santa Maria del Bosco after the earthquake. The spirit of Bruno, who lived and died in this place, still lives and provokes and moves us among these centuries-old trees and near this stream that bathes his feet.
visitserrasanbruno.it/visitare-serra-san-bruno/le-chiese/santuario-di-santa-maria-nel-bosco/il-santuario
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Church of Our Lady of Sorrows Maria SS. of the Seven Sorrows, Serra San Bruno
Highlight • Religious Site
Church of Our Lady of Sorrows
The Church of Our Lady of Sorrows was built in 1721 according to a project by the Serrese architect Biagio Scaramuzzino.
It has a semi-elliptical facade made of local granite blocks that provide the backdrop for the beautiful bronze door, made in 1961 by Serrese artist Giuseppe Maria Pisani, which contains panels depicting the Seven Passions of the Madonna.
This church, a tangible example of Calabrian late Baroque architecture, has an interior enriched by the presence of stuccoes and decorations, and houses the seventeenth-century marble kiborium with a beautiful temple-shaped tabernacle in marble, semiprecious stones and silver, made by the Bergamo Architects Cosimo Fanzago for the Carthusian Convent Church. After the 1783 earthquake, the ciborium was salvaged and adapted to the church where it still stands today.
Also very particular is the seventeenth-century Christ of ancient Certosa, carried in procession on Holy Saturday on the so-called "Naca", a burial bed that changes every year according to a new aesthetic style in shape and colors depending on the inspiration of its creators is set up.
On the sides of the main altar there are two altars from ancient Certosa, above which there are two altarpieces depicting on one side the passage of Sant'Anna of the Roman school of 1642 and on the other the Apparition of the Virgin Mary to San Bruno depicting 1721 by Paolo De Matteis.
Of considerable artistic value is the seventeenth-century perforated marble balustrade, made by Neapolitan marble masters.
Also worth admiring are the four marble medallions attached to the stalls, representing San Bruno, San Gennaro, San Pietro and San Paolo.
Text / Source: Serra San Bruno
visitserrasanbruno.it/visitare-serra-san-bruno/le-chiese/maria-ss-dei-sette-dolori
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Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
Highlight • Cave
The church's memorial day for "Our Lady of Lourdes" is February 11th, the anniversary of the Marian apparition (1858), when the Mother of God appeared to 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous in a rock grotto very close to Lourdes. Bernadette later became a nun and died at the age of just 35. On December 8th (the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary) 1933, she was canonized by Pope Pius XI.
The commemoration of the Madonna of Lourdes is also World Day of the Sick.
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San Bruno Pond
Highlight • Lake
The lake recalls the legend according to which San Bruno did penance and prayed kneeling in the water 1645,
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Tips from the Community
Serra San Bruno is worth a visit. Its historic center, full of characteristic churches, the tree-lined avenue leading to the Certosa, and last but not least, the Hermitage of San Bruno, where you can enjoy the cool, tranquil atmosphere, especially during the week. There's also a stream, a cool path, and tables where you can rest under the trees, perhaps enjoying a bite to eat.
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Beautiful church, right in the middle of town. Like most churches in Italy, it's always open.
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Magnificent Charterhouse. A must-visit. Info: https://www.certosini.info/
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Beautiful pond, built from granite stone
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Beautiful pilgrimage site where Saint Bruno lived.
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The Mother of God depicted and venerated here is the one from Lourdes. This well-known Marian pilgrimage site is located in the French Pyrenees and is visited by many people every year, including many sick people who hope for healing. The devotional image of the Mother of God has become widespread - not only in France - and believers have built Lourdes chapels and grottos everywhere. The church's memorial day for "Our Lady of Lourdes" is February 11th, the anniversary of the Marian apparition (1858), when the Mother of God appeared to 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous in a rock grotto very close to Lourdes. Bernadette later became a nun and died at the age of just 35. On December 8th (the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary) 1933, she was canonized by Pope Pius XI. The commemoration of the Madonna of Lourdes is also World Day of the Sick.
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Magical and religiously intense place. For those who pass through these parts, a moment of reflection for our thoughts.
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Immersed in a forest of silver firs and lush beech trees, the sanctuary of Santa Maria del Bosco is the major tourist site in Serra San Bruno
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I explore around Cardinale?
The region around Cardinale is rich in history and culture. You can visit the Chiesa Matrice of San Nicola di Bari, the main church of Cardinale, or the 18th-century Filangieri Castle (also known as Casino della Razzona). Don't miss the Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, marking the site of a monastery from 1084, and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, where Saint Bruno of Cologne spent his last years. The Ferriera di Razzona di Cardinale also offers a glimpse into the area's industrial heritage.
Are there any natural attractions or parks near Cardinale?
Yes, Cardinale is nestled in the hilly area of the Preserre and the Serre Regional Natural Park, offering beautiful natural landscapes. The old town center is in the picturesque Ancinale Valley, shaped by the Ancinale River. You can also visit San Bruno Pond, a natural monument dedicated to Saint Bruno.
What are some family-friendly attractions in the Cardinale area?
Many sites around Cardinale are suitable for families. The Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, and San Bruno Pond are all marked as family-friendly. For a unique experience, consider visiting "The World of Prehistory" Theme Park in nearby Simbario, which features reproductions of prehistoric finds.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Cardinale?
The region offers various outdoor activities, especially cycling and running. You can explore numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Chiaravalle da Serra San Bruno – loop tour on the Ciclovia Parchi Calabria' or 'Fabrizia da Serra San Bruno – loop tour'. For runners, there are trails like the 'San Bruno Pond – Certosa di Serra San Bruno loop'. Find more options on the Road Cycling Routes around Cardinale, Running Trails around Cardinale, and Cycling around Cardinale guide pages.
Are there any notable religious sites to visit near Cardinale?
Absolutely. The area is known for its religious heritage. Key sites include the Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, and the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows in Serra San Bruno, known for its distinctive semi-elliptical facade. You can also visit the Convent of the Capuchins in Chiaravalle Centrale and the Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie in Torre di Ruggiero.
What is the best time of year to visit Cardinale and its attractions?
While there's no single 'best' time, the summer months are particularly popular, especially for visiting the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, where tens of thousands of visitors relax amidst ancient firs and beech trees. The pleasant weather during this season makes it ideal for exploring both historical sites and natural landscapes.
Can I find any unique or 'hidden gem' attractions in the area?
For a unique historical excursion, consider the ruins of the Castle of Baroness Scoppa, nestled in the hilly woods of Cardinale within the Serre Regional Park. This site offers an intriguing blend of history and natural beauty, away from the more frequented spots.
What are some popular walking or running trails near Cardinale?
There are several popular trails for walking and running. A notable one is the 'San Bruno Pond – Certosa di Serra San Bruno loop from Serra San Bruno', which is a moderate 8.4 km route. Another option is the 'Laghetto di San Bruno loop from Serra San Bruno', a moderate 5.9 km trail. You can find more detailed running routes on the Running Trails around Cardinale guide page.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Cardinale?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of spiritual tranquility and natural beauty. The Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco is described as a 'magical and religiously intense place', while the Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno is considered a 'magnificent' and 'must-visit' historical site. The serene atmosphere and historical significance are often highlighted.
Are there any specific cycling routes recommended for exploring the Cardinale region?
Yes, cycling is a great way to see the area. Consider the 'Calabria Parks Cycle Route - Stage 10', a moderate 22.4 km route. For a more challenging ride, 'The castle of Baroness Scoppa da Cardinale – loop tour' is a difficult 22.4 km route. You can find more cycling options, including gravel routes, on the Cycling around Cardinale guide page.
What is the significance of the hazelnut groves in Cardinale?
The region around Cardinale is known for its 'Nocciola Tonda Calabrese' (Calabrian Round Hazelnut). Hazelnut groves are a prominent feature of the local landscape and agricultural heritage, contributing to the area's unique character and economy.
Is there a specific Marian pilgrimage site near Cardinale?
Yes, the Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie in Torre di Ruggiero is a significant destination for an important Marian pilgrimage that takes place in September.
Most popular routes around Cardinale
Most popular attractions around Cardinale
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