The Provence of Catanzaro has been the capital of the Calabrian Region since 1970. Catanzaro has a population of 370,000 and is made up of 80 communes or municipal areas. It is the narrowest region of Italy and is only 50km from coast to coast which is why in the 9th century, the Byzantines who founded the region used it to control the mountain pass between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas.
Since the 11th century Catanzaro has been known for it's production of fine lace and silk. Today the region is continues this heritage and for centuries the Vatican has ordered its lace and linens for their priests as well as many of the royal houses.
Catanzaro Town rises on a rock and is split into two parts by a steep valley, the two sections being connected by a huge concrete and steel bridge which is among the highest in Europe built in 1960. This capital city boasts a Norman castle built in 1060. Catanzaro is also a very important rail junction within Italy, a brand new station has just been opened, as it is the centre of trade in wheat, oil and wine.
The beach town Catanzaro lido is located 5km south, has a wide promenade and a harbour for small fishing and pleasure boats. |
