Where ancient strength meets timeless elegance in the heart of Reggio Calabria

A Noble Residence Where History and Art Merge Beneath the Surface

In the heart of Reggio Calabria, just steps from the Ionian Sea, Palazzo Guarna rises with its elegant façade. Built in 1921, this noble palace blends neoclassical forms with the decorative flair of the Liberty style. While its floral motifs and grand balconies attract the eye, its true treasure lies underground.

During the excavation of its foundations, workers uncovered a Roman mosaic from the Severan age (200–225 AD). This remarkable artwork, made of black and white tesserae, portrays athletes competing in wrestling and boxing matches. The names of the fighters, written in Greek, reveal the presence of professional competitors from across the Roman Empire. One, Damas, was the son of a celebrated champion named Marcus Antonius Damas. These scenes likely adorned the floor of a training room within an ancient bathhouse.

Above ground, the palace speaks to the city’s 20th-century rebirth after the devastating 1908 earthquake. Its arched windows, classical columns, and ornate cornices express both strength and refinement. The terrace, framed by a balustrade of sculpted pilasters, crowns the building with balance and grace.

Today, Palazzo Guarna represents a perfect meeting point between past and present. It reminds visitors that Reggio Calabria holds stories not just in its museums, but also beneath its streets and homes. This historic building invites exploration and offers a unique glimpse into the city’s layered identity.