Amaroni: Nature, History and Local Produce

Amaroni sits on a rocky spur at the foot of Monte Carbonara, overlooking the Golfo di Squillace. In the hills around the town, oak and chestnut forests cover the steepest slopes; on gentler slopes, olive trees, fruit trees and grapevines predominate. This combination of hillside scenery and agricultural land gives you a tangible way to experience the area when choosing Amaroni as a destination.

Landscape and trails

Fontana Serra is a green natural area along the Ferrera River, just outside the built-up centre of Amaroni and also accessible on foot. At Sagracìa, there are natural pools with waterfalls about five metres high. Access conditions may vary, so check them before visiting. A trail through the Fontana Serra area follows the Ferrera towards Mortariadhu. Trail conditions can also change. If you plan to visit, consider both access to the natural pools and the current condition of the trail.

Getting there and finding your way

Provincial Road 162/2 passes through Amaroni and connects the town towards the new link road to State Road Ionica 106 and the upgraded Strada dei Due Mari (SS 280). The SS 280 has access routes to the A3 motorway, the railway station and Lamezia Terme International Airport. Check current road and route conditions before travelling when planning your journey.

Architectural history and historic sites

Palazzo Canale was built in 1666 by Prince De Gregorio. The earthquake of 28 March 1783 destroyed the Chiesa Matrice di Santa Barbara. It has a 24-metre-high bell tower with a dome-shaped top, as well as frescoes signed by the painters Zimatore and Grillo. The church thus brings together a clear historical chronology and specific architectural and artistic features.

Fontana Vecchia is a historic spring on the edge of the historic centre. The name “fontana degli innamorati” (“fountain of lovers”) recalls the local tradition that young lovers would meet there in secret. The spring is also accessible to people with mobility disabilities; check local conditions before your visit. In the historic centre, a renovated former olive oil mill serves as a museum. Check current opening hours before visiting.

Local produce and facilities

The town’s Fiera delle bontà e delle arti is an exhibition showcasing the region’s outstanding craft and gastronomic products. Dates and programme are seasonal; check them if you would like to include the event in your trip. Amaroni has been a member of the National Association Le Città del Miele since December 2005. Beekeepers in Amaroni produce millefiori, chestnut, orange blossom, sulla and eucalyptus honey; the availability of individual varieties may vary.

The Biblioteca Comunale Tiziano Terzani offers free book consultation and loan services. It has a study room, a reading room for young children and a multimedia room. If you would like to use the library during your stay, check its current opening arrangements in advance.

Discover more destinations: Platania, Davoli, Pianopoli, Chiaravalle Centrale, Roccelletta, Martirano Lombardo, Petronà, Castagna

For the broader travel overview: Catanzaro.