Attractions and Places To See around Simbario - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Simbario include cultural, historical, and natural sites. This tranquil municipality in the Province of Vibo Valentia, Calabria, is set amidst a picturesque natural landscape. The area offers a blend of authentic Calabrian heritage and opportunities for relaxation in nature. Many notable landmarks and natural features are easily accessible from Simbario.
Best attractions and places to see around Simbario
- The most popular attractions is Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, a religious building and historical site. It stands on the site where the first Carthusians lived, with a chapel dedicated to San Bruno and another to the Madonna.
- Another must-see spot is San Bruno Pond, a lake and natural monument. This pond is associated with the legend of Saint Bruno, who is said to have performed penance and prayed here.
- Visitors also love Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, a religious building and historical site nestled within a forest. It is a major attraction, drawing visitors to the place where Saint Bruno of Cologne spent the last years of his life.
- Simbario is known for its religious sites, historical landmarks, and natural features. The area provides diverse opportunities for exploration, from ancient sanctuaries to scenic ponds.
- The attractions around Simbario are appreciated by the komoot community, with 19 photos and 43 upvotes.
Last updated: July 2, 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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Monterosso
Highlight • Settlement
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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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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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If you go to greenhouse, don't miss the place in Brognaturo Donna Rosa you can eat the best mushrooms in Calabria abundant quantities moderate prices
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and religious sites can I visit around Simbario?
The area around Simbario is rich in history and religious significance. You can explore the Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, which stands on the site where the first Carthusians lived. Another significant site is the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, nestled within a forest where Saint Bruno of Cologne spent his final years. Also, consider visiting the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows Maria SS. of the Seven Sorrows in Serra San Bruno, known for its Calabrian late Baroque architecture.
What natural attractions are there to explore near Simbario?
Nature lovers will appreciate the San Bruno Pond, a tranquil spot associated with the legend of Saint Bruno. The broader region is home to the Natural Regional Park of Serre, a vast 'green lung' with diverse ecosystems, wild forests like Archiforo Wood, and spectacular waterfalls such as the Marmarico Waterfall. The WWF Oasis of Lake Angitola, a nesting place for migratory birds, also offers pleasant walks.
Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions in the Simbario area?
Absolutely! For families, Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, and Church of Our Lady of Sorrows Maria SS. of the Seven Sorrows are all considered family-friendly. A unique option is Il Mondo Della Preistoria, a theme park dedicated to prehistoric animals and human evolution, featuring over 60 reproductions and interactive exhibits. For active families, Parco Avventura Adrenalina Verde offers outdoor adventure activities.
What kind of outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available near Simbario?
The Simbario area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. For hiking, explore options like the 'Bosco di Santa Maria – loop hike in the Parco delle Serre' or the 'Frassati Trail Loop'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as 'Calabria Parks Cycle Route - Stage 10'. Mountain bikers have trails like 'Pietra Lu Moru Loop from Serra San Bruno'. You can find detailed guides for these activities at Hiking around Simbario, Cycling around Simbario, and MTB Trails around Simbario.
Are there any museums or cultural centers to visit near Simbario?
Yes, you can delve into the local culture and history at several museums. The Museo della Certosa, located about 5.5 km from Simbario, offers exhibition halls related to the Carthusian monastery. Further afield, in Mongiana, you can visit the Museo delle Reali Ferriere Borboniche, which focuses on the Bourbon Royal Ironworks. Additionally, Monterosso Calabro, a nearby settlement, houses the Museum of Peasant and Artisan Civilization of Calabria.
What is the best time to visit Simbario and its attractions?
Simbario is a tranquil destination that can be enjoyed throughout the year. The Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco is particularly popular in the summer, drawing thousands of visitors. The Natural Regional Park of Serre offers diverse ecosystems that are beautiful in spring, summer, and autumn. For outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, spring and early autumn generally offer pleasant weather conditions.
Can I find any unique historical landmarks or castles in the vicinity of Simbario?
Yes, beyond the religious sites, you can visit the historic Castello Aragonese Murat in nearby Pizzo, approximately 19.8 km from Simbario. Pizzo also features the unique Church Piedigrotta, which is carved directly into the rock, offering a distinct historical and architectural experience.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic settlements worth visiting near Simbario?
The region offers several scenic spots. The settlement of Monterosso is known for its magnificent historic center and is not far from the nature reserve of Lake Angitola. San Nicola da Crissa, often called 'the balcony delle Calabrie', provides splendid panoramic views overlooking the Calabrian coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
What makes the Natural Regional Park of Serre a significant attraction?
The Natural Regional Park of Serre is a vital 'green lung' of central Calabria, spanning approximately 18,000 hectares. It's significant for its diverse ecosystems, including ancient forests like Archiforo Wood, known for 'forest bathing,' and the Stilo Wood. The park is crisscrossed by numerous watercourses, creating stunning features like the Marmarico Waterfall. It's an ideal place for nature immersion, offering pleasant walks and opportunities to observe migratory birds at the WWF Oasis of Lake Angitola.
What are some easy hiking options around Simbario?
For those looking for easier walks, the 'Bosco di Santa Maria – loop hike in the Parco delle Serre' is rated as easy and covers about 6.5 km. Another easy option is the 'Bosco Archiforo – loop tour in the Parco delle Serre', which is around 3.7 km. These trails provide a gentle way to experience the natural beauty of the region. More details can be found in the Hiking around Simbario guide.
How can I learn more about the Carthusian order and Saint Bruno's legacy in the area?
To deepen your understanding of the Carthusian order and Saint Bruno's legacy, visit the Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, which marks the original site of the first Carthusian hermits. The Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco is where Saint Bruno spent his final years. The Museo della Certosa also offers themed exhibitions directly related to the Carthusian monastery and its history.
Most popular attractions around Simbario
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