
Cattolica di Stilo
A 9th-10th century Byzantine church with five iconic domes, offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval art.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful

Cattolica di Stilo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 9th-10th century Byzantine church with five iconic domes, offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval art.
"A beautiful little hidden gem in Italy you will not be disappointed."

🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Crucial advice: buy tickets online in advance as they may not be sold on-site.
🚗 Easy to Find
Well signposted with satellite navigation, and free parking is available on-site.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Byzantine Church
Main structure
A stunning 9th-10th century Byzantine gem with a Greek cross plan and five iconic domes.

Panoramic Views
Surrounding hillside
Breathtaking vistas of Stilo's old town and the Calabrian landscape, perfect for photos.

Ancient Frescoes
Interior walls
Discover remnants of ancient frescoes that hint at the church's rich artistic past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Tickets and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Crucial advice: buy tickets online in advance as they may not be sold on-site.
🚗 Easy to Find
Well signposted with satellite navigation, and free parking is available on-site.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Amazing photo spots with stunning views of the town and surrounding scenery.
🛍️ Souvenir Shop
A charming souvenir shop and local food shop are located at the entrance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Crucial advice: buy tickets online in advance as they may not be sold on-site.
🚗 Easy to Find
Well signposted with satellite navigation, and free parking is available on-site.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Amazing photo spots with stunning views of the town and surrounding scenery.
🛍️ Souvenir Shop
A charming souvenir shop and local food shop are located at the entrance.
🚶♀️ Explore the Ruins
Access to nearby ruins offers beautiful historical exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cattolica di Stilo for its stunning Byzantine architecture, breathtaking panoramic views, and peaceful atmosphere. Many highlight the well-preserved frescoes and the charming souvenir shop. Some find the visit brief for the entry fee, but most agree the unique beauty and historical significance make it a worthwhile stop in Calabria.
"The ticket is 4 euros and you are only visiting the church that is built in 9th century with Byzantine style. There are still some pieces of frescos.
The view is also nice."
S.R. Wen
"Wow I enjoyed my visit to this enchanting little place in Stilo. The church sits within the most amazing scenery and is well worth a visit. There is an entry fee but it wasn't much (can't remember the exact price).
I managed to take some amazing photo's.
You have to drive into Stilo to get to the church up the hill. But it is well signposted and easy to find also with satellite navigation. There is a cafe and gift shop in the grounds that sell the most amazing little keepsakes to take home and not expensive.
There is free car parking in the grounds too.
I found the staff very helpful and polite and even helped to take some photos for me.
I would recommend a visit to this beautiful little hidden gem in Italy you will not be disappointed."
M Dick
"It was beautiful to visit this gem in Stilo. The view of the old town is astonishing, and the area is so peaceful. It’s a bit out of the way, but so worth the visit! Check it out! The cute souvenir shop and local food shop are right at the entrance. You also have acces to the ruins wich is beautiful to see."
Michael H.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Cattolica di Stilo from Reggio Calabria by bus, which takes about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, take a train to Monasterace and then a bus up to Stilo. Once in Stilo, it's an easy walk up to the Cattolica.
Yes, it's well signposted and easy to find with satellite navigation. There is free car parking available on-site.
The most common routes involve public transport from Reggio Calabria, either by bus directly or a combination of train and bus. Driving is also a straightforward option.
Yes, buses connect from nearby towns and train stations to Stilo. If arriving by train at Monasterace, a bus service is available to take you up to Stilo.
The walk up to the Cattolica from Stilo town is generally considered easy and straightforward.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is approximately €4 per person. It's advisable to check for the most current pricing.
It is highly recommended to buy your ticket online in advance, as they may not be sold on-site.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
Yes, there is an entry fee, typically around €4, which grants access to the church and its grounds.
Yes, booking tickets online in advance is strongly advised, as on-site ticket sales might not be available.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the church, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the sacred space and other visitors. Some areas might have restrictions.
The exterior offers stunning views of the church against the landscape, and the interior showcases its unique architecture and frescoes. The surrounding hillside provides panoramic views of Stilo.
Drone usage regulations can be strict. It's essential to check local drone laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying near historical sites like Cattolica di Stilo.
You can capture the unique Byzantine architecture, the five domes, interior details, ancient frescoes, and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding region.
Natural light is available through the church's openings. Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour lighting for exterior shots.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the well-preserved Byzantine architecture, including the Greek cross plan, three apses, and remnants of ancient frescoes.
While not always explicitly mentioned, guides are sometimes available and can be friendly and helpful, offering insights into the history and architecture.
It's a significant example of 9th-10th century Byzantine religious architecture, known for its preserved structure and unique design. It's a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status.
The ruins likely refer to the surrounding archaeological area or other historical structures in the vicinity, offering further exploration opportunities.
A visit to the church itself can be quite short, perhaps 5-15 minutes for a quick look, but exploring the grounds and enjoying the views can extend the visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Byzantine Architectural Marvel
Inside, visitors can still see remnants of ancient frescoes, offering a glimpse into the church's original decorative scheme and its spiritual significance. The careful preservation of its original form makes it a valuable historical artifact and a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status. The unique construction and historical importance make it a must-see for anyone interested in medieval art and architecture.
Many visitors are captivated by the church's enduring beauty and its ability to transport them back in time. The combination of its historical depth and architectural elegance creates a profound sense of awe. It's a place where history feels palpable, inviting contemplation and appreciation for the craftsmanship of centuries past.
Capturing the Essence: Photography at Cattolica di Stilo
Inside, photographers can focus on the intricate details of the Byzantine architecture, the geometric patterns of the Greek cross plan, and the subtle beauty of the remaining frescoes. The natural light filtering through the openings can create atmospheric shots, especially during the golden hours of late afternoon. Remember to be respectful of the sacred space and other visitors when taking photos.
Many visitors share their stunning images online, showcasing the church's unique charm and the breathtaking scenery. The ability to capture both the architectural grandeur and the natural beauty makes Cattolica di Stilo a photographer's delight.
Getting There and Around
Driving to Cattolica di Stilo is also straightforward. The site is well signposted, and using satellite navigation will guide you directly to the location. Upon arrival, visitors will find free car parking available on-site, making access convenient.
Once you are in Stilo, the walk up to the Cattolica is generally considered easy. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of the local landscape and the charm of the town before you reach the historical site.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit