The Terrace on the Strait that Enchants Every Visitor

Italy’s Most Scenic Kilometer by the Sea

A magical, romantic seafront promenade with breathtaking views over the Strait of Messina. Lungomare Falcomatà is the beating heart of Reggio Calabria. It’s a must-see for travelers discovering the southern tip of Italy for the first time.

Nicknamed “the most beautiful kilometer in Italy” (though it’s actually 1.7 km long), it’s a beloved space for locals and visitors alike. The promenade is where the city meets the sea—an elegant walkway lined with palm trees, gardens, monuments, and historical sites.

A Walk Through Centuries of History

The promenade has been rebuilt several times. After the 1783 earthquake, engineer Giovan Battista Mori designed an open space facing the sea, backed by a curved row of elegant buildings known as the Real Palazzina.

Later, in the 19th century, the arrival of the railway reshaped the area. Then, after the devastating earthquake of 1908, the Lungomare took on its modern form.

In fact, it was reborn once again in 1994 during a major urban renewal. This project created a multi-level path system and transformed it into one of Europe’s largest public waterfronts.

Landmarks, Legends, and Liberty Style

The Lungomare includes four streets: Lungomare Falcomatà, Lungomare Matteotti, Corso Vittorio Emanuele III, and Viale Genoese Zerbi. These form the famous Via Marina.

Moreover, visitors are greeted by stunning Liberty-style architecture, such as Palazzo Zani, Palazzo Spinelli, and Villa Genoese Zerbi.

As you walk, you’ll find ancient Greek and Roman relics. For example, a statue of the poet Ibycus from the 6th century BC, and a bronze tripod dedicated to Apollo. You’ll also encounter ancient Greek walls and a Roman bath.

More Than Just the Sea

The Lungomare is also a perfect starting point to explore the city. Just a short walk away, you’ll reach the National Archaeological Museum—home to the famous Riace Bronzes.

You can also explore the historic center, with Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, Piazza Garibaldi, and the green Villa Comunale gardens. Therefore, it’s easy to combine culture, history, and leisure—all in one place.