Attractions and Places To See around Sant'Onofrio - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Sant'Onofrio, a municipality in the province of Vibo Valentia, Calabria, offers a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. This area serves as a gateway to various points of interest in its vicinity. Visitors can explore significant historical strongholds and unique religious buildings. The region is characterized by its picturesque settings and cultural heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Sant'Onofrio
- The most popular attractions is Murat Castle of Pizzo Calabro, a castle that became famous through the arrest of Joachim Murat. The castle, built in 1492, can be visited and is located on a panoramic point.
- Another must-see spot is Church of Saint Roch and Saint Francis of Paola, Pizzo, a religious building with a large viewing terrace. This church was built in the 16th century and is dedicated to San Rocco and San Francesco di Paola.
- Visitors also love Chiesetta di Piedigrotta of Pizzo, a unique religious building carved entirely into the tuff rock. Inside, it features several sculptural groups also set up in tuff, depicting scenes from the life of Jesus and saints.
- Sant'Onofrio is known for its historical castles, religious buildings, and unique natural formations like caves. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from coastal areas to historical landmarks.
- The attractions around Sant'Onofrio are appreciated by the komoot community, with 84 upvotes and 131 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Murat Castle of Pizzo Calabro
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Church of Saint Roch and Saint Francis of Paola, Pizzo
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Tartufo di Pizzo at Gelateria Dante
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Giuseppe De Maria's nephews, who run the Dante and Ercole gelaterias in the center of Pizzo, claim the original recipe.
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Chiesetta di Piedigrotta of Pizzo
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Around 1880, a local artist, Angelo Barone, who had a small stationery shop in the center of the village, decided to dedicate his life to this place; Every day he reached the place on foot and with a pickaxe he enlarged the cave, created two more side ones and filled the rooms with statues representing the life of Jesus and the saints. Angelo died on May 19, 1917, his son Alfonso took over and devoted 40 years of his life to the Church. By his hand it took on its final appearance. He created other groups of statues, capitals with angels, bas-reliefs with sacred scenes, frescoes on the vault of the central nave and on that of the main altar. At his death, there were no sequels.
Unfortunately, the church was vandalized in the early 1960s. A boy (or maybe two) got in and was decapitated with a stick, breaking the limbs of several statues! Fortunately, at the end of the same decade, a nephew of Angelo and Alfonso Barone named Giorgio, from Canada where he had moved to, decided to return to Pizzo and become a renowned sculptor. He was only supposed to stay in his birthplace for two weeks, but after visiting the church and reducing it to a pile of rubble, he decided to try to restore it. He stayed in Pizzo for several months, working non-stop to revive the masterpiece created by his uncles. The restoration was completed in '68 and received official recognition in '69 with a public thanksgiving in the Pizzo Town Hall by Councilor Mannacio and Mayor Amodio.
Text / Source: Società Cooperativa Kairos
chiesadipiedigrotta.it
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Church of Saint George the Martyr (Pizzo)
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Source: it.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chiesa_di_San_Giorgio_(Pizzo)
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Tips from the Community
Located a little outside of Pizzo. A well-maintained staircase leads down to the grotto.
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Pizzo - known as the home of the Tartufo ice cream truffle.
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Traditionally produced Tartufo since 1965!!
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A unique little church built directly on the beach. Legend has it that it was built by Neapolitan coral traders who survived a shipwreck. Inside, various sculptures, statues, and decorations carved directly into the rock face are featured. There's an entrance fee (and there's also a nearby parking lot if you arrive by car).
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An excellent starting point for a visit to the historic center of Pizzo Calabro
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A very beautiful church.
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Beautiful fortress with a great history of Napoleon's brother-in-law
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For information about the castle see https://it.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pizzo_(comune)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit near Sant'Onofrio, Calabria?
Sant'Onofrio in Calabria is surrounded by rich history. You can explore the imposing Murat Castle of Pizzo Calabro, famous for its role in the arrest and execution of Joachim Murat. Another significant site is the unique Chiesetta di Piedigrotta of Pizzo, a church carved entirely into tuff rock with sculptural groups depicting religious scenes. Additionally, the ruins of the Dominican Convent of Soriano Calabro and the Norman-Swabian Castle in Vibo Valentia offer further historical insights.
Are there any unique natural attractions or viewpoints around Sant'Onofrio?
Yes, the region offers several natural wonders and scenic viewpoints. The Chiesetta di Piedigrotta of Pizzo is not only a historical site but also a natural monument, being a church carved into a cave by the sea. You can also visit the Marina Di Pizzo for coastal views, or explore the Le Grotte di Zungri (Zungri Caves) for a natural scenic experience. Many religious buildings, like the Church of Saint Roch and Saint Francis of Paola, Pizzo, offer large viewing terraces with magnificent vistas.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Sant'Onofrio?
The area around Sant'Onofrio is great for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various routes for hiking, mountain biking, and running. For hiking, consider easy loops like the 'Monument to Umberto I loop from Pizzo' or the 'Chiesetta di Piedigrotta loop from Pizzo'. Mountain bikers can tackle moderate routes such as 'Lago dell'Angitola - giro ad anello'. Runners have options like the 'Briatico – Costa degli Dei' trail. For more details and routes, check out the hiking guide, MTB trails guide, and running trails guide for Sant'Onofrio.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Sant'Onofrio area?
Absolutely! Many attractions around Sant'Onofrio are suitable for families. The Murat Castle of Pizzo Calabro offers an engaging historical experience. The Church of Saint Roch and Saint Francis of Paola, Pizzo, and the Chiesetta di Piedigrotta of Pizzo are also listed as family-friendly. For a sweet treat, the Tartufo di Pizzo at Gelateria Dante is a must-try and a delightful stop for all ages.
Where can I find traditional artisan crafts near Sant'Onofrio?
For traditional artisan crafts, you should visit Gerocarne, known as the 'Borgo dei Vasai' (Village of Potters). Located about 14 km from Sant'Onofrio, this town preserves traditional workshops where you can see and purchase terracotta pottery.
What are some coastal attractions or beaches near Sant'Onofrio?
Sant'Onofrio is conveniently located near beautiful coastal areas. The Marina Di Pizzo is a popular attraction just 4.7 km away. Further afield, you can visit the renowned Shore of Tropea, approximately 21.7 km from Sant'Onofrio, or the attractive beach area of Marinella Di Zambrone, about 15 km away.
Is there a specific church named Sant'Onofrio that is particularly famous?
While the guide focuses on Sant'Onofrio in Calabria, the name Sant'Onofrio is also associated with a significant historical and cultural site in Rome: the Church of Sant'Onofrio al Gianicolo. This magnificent Renaissance church on Janiculum Hill is known for its art, architecture, and as the final resting place of the epic poet Torquato Tasso.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Sant'Onofrio?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of history and scenic beauty. The Murat Castle of Pizzo Calabro is highly popular for its historical significance and splendid panoramic views. The unique Chiesetta di Piedigrotta of Pizzo, carved into rock, also captivates visitors with its distinctiveness and history. Many also enjoy the local culinary delights, such as the famous Tartufo di Pizzo.
Are there any attractions near Sant'Onofrio that are wheelchair accessible?
Yes, some attractions are noted for their accessibility. The Church of Saint Roch and Saint Francis of Paola, Pizzo, is listed as wheelchair accessible. Additionally, the Tartufo di Pizzo at Gelateria Dante is also indicated as wheelchair accessible, making it a pleasant stop for everyone.
Can I find archaeological sites near Sant'Onofrio?
Yes, the region has archaeological interest. The Castle and Archaeological Museum in Vibo Valentia, located about 4.1 km from Sant'Onofrio, combines historical architecture with archaeological exhibits. Additionally, the Rock Settlement and Museum of Rural Life of Zungri, near the Zungri Caves, offers insights into the area's past.
Where can I try the famous Tartufo di Pizzo ice cream?
You can try the original Tartufo di Pizzo at Gelateria Dante in Pizzo. This is where the famous dessert, a hazelnut and chocolate ice cream creation, was invented in the early 1930s.
Most popular attractions around Sant'Onofrio
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