Lamezia may not be the largest city in Italy, but it has plenty of fascinating sights on offer. There are also many attractions outside the center, so renting a car is the ideal way to make the most of your stay.
Must-see monuments
Lamezia Terme, to give the city its full title, was formed in the late 1960s by the amalgamation of three towns: Nicastro, Sambiase and Sant’Eufemia Lamezia. Today, one of the city’s most famous attractions is the ninth-century castle in the area that was once Nicastro.
Dating back to the ninth century, this fortress was built on a rock overlooking the sea to provide a defense against invading forces. Much of the castle was destroyed by an earthquake in the 17th century, but some work has been done to preserve its remains, and today you can still see its former walls on the hilltop overlooking the city.
Not far from the castle you can also find the remains of St Eufemia abbey, built in 1062. And nearby lies perhaps the most famous historical monument in Lamezia, the Bastion of the Knights of Malta. This enormous watchtower dates back to the 16th century and although the ruins of several other towers are visible nearby, this is the best preserved thanks to its thick walls that were built to withstand attacks with plenty of firepower.
If you’re keen to learn more about the history of this part of Italy, head to the Diocesan Museum where you’ll find an extensive display of artifacts and artworks, including several 18th-century paintings by local artist Francesco Colelli.
National parks
Lamezia is also ideally placed for visiting the Pollino and La Sila national parks. Closest to the city is La Sila, where you’ll find mountainous landscapes and some stunning scenery. It’s also home to some rare plants and animals, including deer and even wolves that live in remote areas of the park.
Just a slightly longer drive north out of the city you’ll discover Pollino National Park, which spans parts of Calabria and the neighboring region of Basilicata. Much of the landscape is covered in forests, with several mountains rising high above the trees.
The highest peaks are Serra Dolcedorme and Monte Pollino, but if you don’t want to tackle the steep slopes you can take some time to explore the towns and villages within the park, where traditional rural Italian ways of life remain largely untouched.
Seaside resorts
With a rental car in Lamezia it’s easy to reach the coast, with several popular resorts to choose from. Fewer than 40 miles south of the city is the seaside town of Tropea, perched on a clifftop overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.
This is a favorite destination for locals, thanks to its beautiful beaches and clear, blue waters, set against the backdrop of some dramatic rocky scenery. The town also has a historic center where you can wander around its cobbled streets with cafes serving latte di mandorla, a refreshing drink made with almond milk.
Rent a car in Lamezia to see the best of the city and explore the wider Calabria region.