Sacred & culture · 2 days

In the footsteps of the sacred

A path among the places of faith of the Upper Tyrrhenian Cosentino coast: the great Sanctuary of Paola, a pilgrimage destination, and the rock sanctuaries of the northern coast. Two days of silence, art and popular devotion.

1. Day 1 — Paola

   A day devoted to the most important sanctuary in Calabria: it’s worth taking your time, without rushing.

   Suggested base: Paola.
   1. Morning · half day
      Sanctuary of Saint Francis of Paola

      The Sanctuary of Saint Francis, patron saint of Calabria and of sailors.

   Lunch break · Paola

   Look for somewhere to eat in town. Live results: we don’t hand-pick individual venues we can’t verify.

   Find restaurants ↗

   Tip: The sanctuary is an active place of worship: dress modestly and respect moments of prayer.

2. Day 2 — Praia and Scalea

   Head north to the places of popular devotion: the rock sanctuary of Praia and the church of Scalea’s patroness.

   Suggested base: Praia a Mare or Scalea. Open the day’s route on the map ↗
   1. Morning · 1–2 hours
      Sanctuary of the Madonna della Grotta

      The rock sanctuary of Praia a Mare, in a natural cave.

   2. Transfer: ~14 km · ~20 min by car (estimate)

      Afternoon · 1 hour
      Church of Santa Maria d'Episcopio (Madonna del Carmine)

      The church of Scalea’s patroness, in the old town.

   Lunch break · Praia a Mare

   Look for somewhere to eat in town. Live results: we don’t hand-pick individual venues we can’t verify.

   Find restaurants ↗

   Tip: The Madonna della Grotta sanctuary is set in a natural cave: the interior stays cool even in summer.

Distances and times between stops are rough road estimates; the exact route is on the map.