Things to see in Gerace

Gerace is a striking medieval hill town in the region of Calabria, perched on a sandstone plateau above the Ionian coast. Known for its remarkably preserved historic centre, Norman-era cathedral, and sweeping views over the Locride plain and sea, Gerace is one of southern Italy’s most atmospheric small towns.

Gerace’s old town is a maze of stone-paved lanes, arches, and stairways, largely unchanged for centuries. Its elevated position offers constant views over the surrounding countryside and sea.

Cathedral of Gerace. The Cathedral of Gerace (Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta) is the largest cathedral in Calabria and one of the most important Norman churches in southern Italy. Built around the 11th–12th centuries, it combines austere Romanesque architecture with later additions and stands out for its fortress-like structure, impressive nave supported by ancient columns, and atmospheric crypt beneath the presbytery. Church of San Giovannello. The Church of San Giovannello is a small Byzantine-style church that once served as the katholikon of a female monastery dedicated to St John Chrysostom, revealed through excavations in 1995. It is noted for its simple, refined architecture and subtle Byzantine design elements that blend closely with the surrounding streetscape. Church of San Francesco. Gerace Castle. The Gerace Castle sits on the highest point of the town and is believed to date back to Norman times, later expanded and modified over the centuries.