Surrounded by the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Santuario di Santa Maria dell’Isola is in the town of Tropea in the Province of Vibo Valentia. While its history is uncertain, the area is known to have come under the auspices of Basilian monks of the Eastern rite some time during the early Middle Ages. In the 11th century, the island’s religious reigns were passed to the Benedictines under guidance of the Normans. Tropea and the surrounding communities were gradually Latinized, and interestingly, the Abbey of Montecassino has held dominion over the island sanctuary for over 1,000 years.

Little of the original structure remains due to the devastating earthquakes of 1783 and 1905. Today, Santa Maria dell’Isola has become one of Calabria’s most internationally recognized symbols.

To visit the sanctuary from the old town, a set of steps leads down to the beach level near the Piazzetta del Canone. And then, stairs sculpted out of the rock lead up to the church with its pristine façade – almost too smooth and perfect the nearer you get, which is the end result of the previous face’s complete collapse during the seismic event of 1905.

Entrance to the church is free, but access to the rooms above and to the rest of the “island” requires a modest admission. Climbing up the irregular steps to the small museum with windows facing back onto the historic center is priceless. As are the views from the church’s terrace and gardens.

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