Pentedattilo Italy
A captivating 'ghost town' village perched on a mountain shaped like a hand, offering ancient charm and stunning views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Pentedattilo Italy
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A captivating 'ghost town' village perched on a mountain shaped like a hand, offering ancient charm and stunning views.
"Pentedattilo is a timeless place that fascinates every time."
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring Pentedattilo and surrounding areas. Public transport is limited.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and inclines require sturdy footwear for exploring the village.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Five-Fingered Mountain
Monte Calvario
Marvel at the mountain's unique shape, resembling a giant hand, which gives Pentedattilo its name.
The Ancient Village Streets
Pentedattilo Village
Wander through the narrow, stone-paved alleys of this historic, abandoned village.
Panoramic Views
Various viewpoints
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding Aspromonte National Park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Ghost Town Charm
Getting to Pentedattilo
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring Pentedattilo and surrounding areas. Public transport is limited.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and inclines require sturdy footwear for exploring the village.
💧 Bring Water
Especially in summer, stay hydrated as you explore the village's nooks and crannies.
📸 Capture the Magic
Pentedattilo is incredibly photogenic; bring your camera for stunning shots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring Pentedattilo and surrounding areas. Public transport is limited.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and inclines require sturdy footwear for exploring the village.
💧 Bring Water
Especially in summer, stay hydrated as you explore the village's nooks and crannies.
📸 Capture the Magic
Pentedattilo is incredibly photogenic; bring your camera for stunning shots.
🕰️ Visit During Daylight
The village is best explored and appreciated with natural light.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Pentedattilo's unique 'ghost town' atmosphere, dramatic mountain backdrop, and historical charm. The revival of the village with new businesses is appreciated, though some find the infrastructure still developing. It's a place that truly transports you to another time.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Pentedattilo is by car, as it offers the most flexibility. From Reggio Calabria, take the SS106 towards Melito di Porto Salvo and follow signs for Pentedattilo. Public transport options are limited and can be time-consuming. 
While possible, public transport to Pentedattilo can be infrequent and may require transfers. Buses from Reggio Calabria to Melito di Porto Salvo are available, but the final leg to Pentedattilo might involve a taxi or a significant walk.
The roads leading to Pentedattilo are narrow and winding, typical of mountain villages. Drive cautiously and enjoy the scenic route.
Limited parking is available near the entrance of the village. During peak season, it can fill up quickly, so arriving early is advisable.
Pentedattilo is located approximately 30 kilometers (about 18 miles) southeast of Reggio Calabria.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the village of Pentedattilo itself is generally free. However, some specific attractions or museums within the village might have admission fees.
Pentedattilo is an open village, meaning you can visit at any time. However, for the best experience and to explore any local businesses or sites, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
The 'ghost town' charm of Pentedattilo is part of its public appeal, and there is no specific fee to wander through the abandoned parts of the village.
Guided tours may be available, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's advisable to check with local tourist information centers or inquire upon arrival for current offerings.
Yes, Pentedattilo can be visited year-round. However, spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
Every corner of Pentedattilo offers a photographic opportunity! Key spots include the views of the 'five-fingered' mountain, the narrow alleyways, ancient stone houses, and panoramic vistas of the Ionian Sea.
Drone regulations can vary. While some reels show drone footage,
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the most beautiful light for photography, casting dramatic shadows and warm hues on the ancient stones.
Don't miss capturing the unique silhouette of the mountain against the sky, the textures of the ancient stone buildings, and the sweeping views from higher vantage points.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the dramatic landscapes and narrow streets. A telephoto lens can be useful for details and distant views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of snacks and water, wear sturdy shoes, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day. The open spaces and unique landscape provide a memorable backdrop for family photos and stories. Keep an eye out for local artisan shops that might offer unique souvenirs.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Adventurers
Recommendations: Renting a car provides the most freedom to explore Pentedattilo and the surrounding Calabrian coast. Embrace the opportunity to wander off the beaten path and discover hidden corners of this captivating village.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
+2Photography tips: Visit during the golden hours for the best light. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the scale of the mountain and the intimacy of the alleys. Look for unique textures and details in the ancient stonework. The village's revival also offers opportunities for capturing scenes of local life and artisan crafts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Pentedattilo
The village itself has a long history, with evidence of ancient Greek settlements in the region. It was strategically important due to its defensible position. Over time, economic hardship and natural disasters led to its gradual abandonment, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful testament to its past.
Today, Pentedattilo is experiencing a revival. Efforts to restore and repopulate the village have led to new businesses and a renewed interest from tourists eager to explore its unique atmosphere. This blend of ancient legend, historical abandonment, and modern revitalization makes Pentedattilo a truly unique destination.
+1Exploring the Village
+1As you explore, you'll discover charming courtyards, remnants of old churches, and breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the Ionian coast and the surrounding Aspromonte National Park. The silence and solitude of the less-restored areas contribute to its 'ghost town' mystique, while newly opened artisan shops and cafes add a touch of life and color.
+1Be prepared for uneven terrain and inclines. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Take your time to soak in the atmosphere, imagine the stories held within these ancient walls, and appreciate the resilience of a village that has been brought back from the brink of oblivion.
The Unique Revival of Pentedattilo
+1New businesses, including artisan workshops, small restaurants, and accommodation options, have opened their doors, offering visitors a chance to experience the village's unique charm. This revitalization is not just about tourism; it's about preserving the heritage and spirit of Pentedattilo, making it a living museum rather than a forgotten relic.
One notable example is the story of Rossella Aquilanti, who moved to the abandoned village and, with the help of a young farmer from Mali, is working to sustain her farm and life there. This human element adds a profound layer to the Pentedattilo experience, showcasing resilience and community.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit