Discover Cutro: history, chess and coastline

Cutro brings together architectural history, chess, religious and cultural events, and coastal and natural landscapes. Specific highlights include the Chiesa Madre, Palazzo Grisi, the town’s chess history, the annual chess event on August 12, and an 8 km stretch of beach within the municipality. When planning your trip, you can choose between architectural history, a set event date, and the coast and trekking as different areas of interest.

Architectural history and a chess personality

The Chiesa Madre is dedicated to the Santissima Annunziata and was rebuilt after the 1832 earthquake. It also preserves original artistic works from the 18th century. The church thus brings together a specific rebuilding project and surviving art from an earlier period. Palazzo Grisi is an example of local aristocratic architecture in Cutro. While the Chiesa Madre is distinguished by its dedication, rebuilding and art, the palazzo represents a different architectural focus. Gio Leonardo di Bona was born in Cutro in the 16th century and held the first world chess championship title in 1575. His biography adds a distinctive historical chess figure to the picture of Cutro.

Two dates for culture and tradition

Two dates should be considered when planning your visit. The main feast of the Santissimo Crocifisso is celebrated on May 3 and is preceded by a novena. The Partita di Scacchi Viventi takes place every year on August 12 and features dozens of costumed performers and flag bearers. The dates differ by month and occasion: May is for the main feast, while August is for the Partita. If you plan to visit for the Partita, check the programme before your trip.

Coast and trekking landscape

Spiaggia di Steccato di Cutro stretches for 8 km within the municipality of Cutro and is known for its soft, light-colored sand. Coastal conditions vary seasonally. The Calanchi di Cutro and the Marchesato Crotonese are recommended for trekking; together, they form a natural area of great value. These offer different kinds of nature experiences: a long sandy beach on the one hand, and a landscape recommended for trekking on the other. Since local trail conditions can change, it is a good idea to check them before setting out on a trek.

Pane di Cutro and planning your trip

There is also a specific local culinary highlight: Pane di Cutro bears the De.Co. mark (Denominazione Comunale di Origine) and is recommended as a local tasting. The mark identifies the bread’s municipal origin. Availability from individual producers may vary. If you would like to try Pane di Cutro, ask about tasting opportunities during your travel dates before your trip.

This is especially helpful if your travel dates are still flexible: a festival date can determine when you visit, while architectural history, the beach or trekking can first help you choose a theme.

Discover more destinations: Steccato, San Nicola Dell'alto, Isola Di Capo Rizzuto, Melissa, Roccabernarda, Crotone, Sant'Anna, Marina Di Strongoli

Go to the main travel overview: Crotone.