A lively crossroads of history, faith, and community in the heart of Reggio Calabria.

Where Markets, Memories, and Architecture Meet

Nestled in the heart of Reggio Calabria, Piazza del Carmine is more than just a charming square—it’s a vibrant symbol of the city’s social and commercial spirit. Originally known as Largo San Filippo, this historic area takes its name from a small chapel that once housed a revered image of Saint Philip of Argirò. In the 17th century, the square marked one of the city’s main entrances: Porta San Filippo, a key gate in the ancient city walls. Merchants arriving from the coastal areas and nearby villages traditionally gathered outside this gate to sell their goods, avoiding the city’s taxes and giving birth to an informal, bustling marketplace.

Today, Piazza del Carmine has been beautifully restored through a participatory project in which local citizens helped choose its final design. The square now features a clean, rectangular layout that connects several major streets, creating a natural hub for both locals and visitors. At its heart lies a central gathering area that merges seamlessly with the forecourt of the adjacent Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Thoughtfully landscaped with green spaces and finished in lava stone reclaimed from the original pavement, the piazza blends contemporary function with historical respect.

The Church of the Carmine itself is a must-see. While its exterior is marked by simplicity, the interior houses a masterpiece: the main altar from the former cathedral, crafted in 1787 by Sicilian artist Paolo Rechichi. Decorated with rich polychrome marble and adorned with Baroque volutes in white marble, the altar is a treasured relic of religious art in southern Italy.