Our journey through time begins from the very heart of Tropea - the historic center of the city. Tropea centro is a veritable maze of narrow, cobblestone streets that lead us through centuries of fascinating history. Walking through these streets, you can feel as if you are in a medieval setting, where every turn hides a new surprise. Attention is drawn to the historic townhouses, small squares and charming stores offering local delicacies and handicrafts.

One of the highlights of Tropea's historical map is undoubtedly the St. Mary's Cathedral. St. Mary of the Romanian Virgin. This majestic temple, which dates back to the 12th century, impresses with its austere Norman architecture with later Baroque elements. The interior of the cathedral hides real treasures of sacred art, including an icon of the Romanian Madonna from the 6th to 7th centuries. Of note are two American bombs from World War II that did not explode and are preserved in the church as a testament to the city's dramatic history.

After leaving the cathedral, head towards the Belvedere Piazza del Cannone - one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Tropea. This spot offers a breathtaking view of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the beach below and the famous Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola. We especially recommend a visit at sunset, when you can admire the sun hiding behind the horizon, sometimes even with the smoky volcano of Stromboli visible in the distance. This is the perfect place to take souvenir photos and stop for a while to fully appreciate the beauty of this unique place.

It is worth comparing the three places in terms of their accessibility and attractiveness to different groups of tourists. Tropea centro is easily accessible to all and offers free sightseeing at any time of the day. The Concathedral may have limited opening hours, but it is free and accessible to people of all physical abilities. The Belvedere Piazza del Cannone, on the other hand, while offering the best views, can be a challenge for those with mobility difficulties due to stairs and uneven terrain. However, all of these places are united by their undeniable charm and historical value, making them must-see spots on the map for any tourist visiting Tropea.

Continuing our journey through historic Tropea, it's impossible to miss Palazzo Santa Chiara, an impressive palace that bears witness to the city's rich past. This historic building, now revitalized, serves as a museum and cultural center. Inside, visitors can enjoy permanent exhibitions, including the fascinating Tropea Sea Civic Museum (MuMaT), which displays rare fossils, including the skeleton of an ancient whale. The Palazzo Santa Chiara is not only a museum, but also hosts concerts and literary gatherings, making it a lively cultural center of the city.

The next point on our tour is Affaccio Raf Vallone e/o dei Sospiri, also known as the Terrace of Sighs. This place offers one of the most spectacular views in all of Tropea. From a height of about 40 meters, it offers a panoramic view of the sea and the famous Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola. This is the perfect place to contemplate the beauty of the landscape and take souvenir photos. It is worth coming here at different times of the day to see how the colors of the sea and sky change.

We must not forget the famous Tropea Beach, which is one of the main reasons why tourists visit this charming town. Located at the foot of the majestic cliffs on which the old town rises, this beautiful sandy beach offers crystal clear water and breathtaking views. It's the perfect place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing, where you can enjoy the sun and sea amid picturesque scenery.

When comparing these three attractions, it's worth noting their diversity and the opportunities they offer tourists. Palazzo Santa Chiara is perfect for history and culture lovers, offering an educational experience in an air-conditioned interior - perfect for hot days. Affaccio Raf Vallone e/o dei Sospiri is a treat for photographers and romantics, but requires some physical effort to get there. Tropea's beach, on the other hand, is a versatile attraction, suitable for families with children, couples and those seeking relaxation.

As for accessibility, Palazzo Santa Chiara has specific opening hours and may charge an admission fee (it's worth checking the current information before visiting). Affaccio Raf Vallone is available all day and is free of charge, but can be crowded during peak season. The beach is also freely accessible, although it can be very crowded during the summer season - it's worth coming early in the morning or late in the afternoon to find a good spot.

Each of these places offers a unique experience and allows you to see Tropea from a different perspective - from delving into its history and culture, to admiring the panoramic views, to relaxing on one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy.

At the end of our historical tour of Tropea, we invite you to discover some of the lesser-known but equally fascinating places that complete the picture of this remarkable city.

The first of these is the Scala Letteraria, or Literary Staircase. This unique place combines a practical function with an artistic and educational one. Each step of this staircase represents the title of a famous literary work and its author. There are references to such classics as Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein,' Franz Kafka's 'Transfiguration' and Homer's 'The Odyssey.' Walking up these stairs is not only an opportunity to admire beautiful views, but also a kind of journey through the history of world literature.

Another hidden treasure of Tropea is the Grotta del Palombaro, also known as the Diver's Cave or the Cave of Lovers. Accessible mainly from the sea, this natural rock formation offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers. The cave is famous for its crystal clear water, which creates ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving. There is even a small sandy beach inside, making this the perfect place for a respite away from the crowds.

We can't leave out the Sedile dei Nobili, the historic meeting place of the Tropean aristocracy. This historic building, though small, is a testament to the city's rich social history. Its architecture and location in the heart of the old city make it an interesting spot on the map for history and architecture lovers.

The last point on our tour is Palazzo Caputo, one of Tropea's many historic palaces. Although it is currently undergoing restoration, its facade and its location on the city's main avenue, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, make it worth noting while walking through the city.

When comparing these lesser-known attractions, it is worth noting their diversity and unique character. Scala Letteraria is easily accessible and free, offering an interesting experience for people of all ages. Grotta del Palombaro, although more difficult to access and requiring some physical fitness, offers an unforgettable experience for lovers of nature and active recreation. Sedile dei Nobili and Palazzo Caputo, on the other hand, are a treat for history and architecture enthusiasts, easily accessible during a stroll through the city, but offering fewer attractions for younger tourists.

It is worth noting that the accessibility of these sites can vary. Scala Letteraria and Sedile dei Nobili are accessible year-round and at any time of day. Grotta del Palombaro is best visited during the summer season, preferably with a guide or on an organized boat tour. Palazzo Caputo, due to ongoing restoration work, may have limited availability - it's worth checking current information before visiting.

All in all, these lesser-known attractions of Tropea offer a unique perspective on the city's history and culture, allowing tourists to discover its less obvious but equally fascinating facets. Whether you are a lover of literature, nature, history or architecture, Tropea has something unique to offer, making any visit to this city an unforgettable experience.