Paola is a captivating town merging a medieval heritage with a stunning stretch of Tyrrhenian coastline. Delve into the town’s fascinating history and learn about one of the region’s most famous religious figures as you explore superb churches and monasteries perched high on the sea cliff. Walk to the waterfront to find a modern lungomare, or seaside promenade, interspersed with pretty marinas and beaches.
The town is revered as the birthplace of St. Francis of Paola, a 15th-century friar. Explore Paola’s Centro Storico (historic district) to find a collection of remarkable churches and religious landmarks. The 15th-century Santuario di San Francesco is a landmark building with an imposing series of cloisters, a spacious piazza and a modern obelisk statue. Stroll along the piazza for pretty views across the treetops to the streetscape below.
Notice the exquisite tiled dome and Renaissance and Baroque flourishes of the Santa Maria degli Angeli Basilica’s façade. Inside, find a collection of treasured artworks, including paintings from the 15th-century Neapolitan school. Other architectural highlights include the 13th-century Santissima Annunziata, the Baroque Church of Santa Maria di Montevergine and the Church of Santa Caterina.
Visit Paola’s modern district, known as Marina di Paola. Hugging the azure-blue coastline, Paola’s waterfront is dotted with modern villas and sleek marinas. Walk or cycle along the scenic waterfront promenade for views across the Tyrrhenian Sea. Check out the pebbly beaches and go swimming when the sun is shining.
Stop at one of the town’s cafés or delicatessens and enjoy traditional Calabrese cuisine. The town has a selection of restaurants with outdoor terraces overlooking the water.
Paola is located on Calabria’s coast, easy to reach by car or by the region’s rail network. The nearest airport is located at Lamezia Terme, which is connected to Paola by rail. The town is less than a 1-hour drive from Cosenza. Experience Paola in full summertime swing in July or August or enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere during other seasons.
