An unmistakable red dome watching over Reggio Calabria, echoing a thousand years of history

A Byzantine Soul in the City’s Heart: Where Faith, Nobility, and Ancient Art Unite Beneath a Crimson Dome

Just a few steps from the Aragonese Castle, the Church of the Ottimati (Chiesa degli Ottimati) invites visitors to discover one of Reggio Calabria’s most remarkable landmarks. Located near Piazza Castello and easily reachable from Corso Garibaldi, this sacred place impresses at first glance. Its deep red Byzantine dome rises above the city, unmistakable and iconic.

The church’s origin dates back to the 10th century, during the Byzantine era. Over time, it became a symbol of both spiritual devotion and noble heritage. In fact, the interior features marble coats of arms from prominent Reggian families like Filocamo, Altavilla, Griso, and Borboni. These symbols reflect the influence of the Ottimati, a congregation of nobles founded by the Normans.After centuries of transformation, the building underwent a major reconstruction in 1931. Architect Pompilio Seno led the design, while the Beato Angelico School in Milan supervised the project. Despite the restoration, many original elements remain. For example, visitors can still admire the Romanesque-Norman mosaic floor and four columns made of rare Greek marble.

Today, the adjacent Jesuit college cares for the church and helps preserve its historical essence. Moreover, it continues to serve as a place of worship and cultural reflection. Originally, the church housed a painting of the Annunciation. After its destruction during a Saracen raid, artist Agostino Ciampelio recreated the work, inspired by the original and commissioned by the Ottimati congregation.