Santuario di San Francesco di Paola
A historic sanctuary dedicated to Calabria's patron saint, offering stunning sea views and a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Santuario di San Francesco di Paola
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic sanctuary dedicated to Calabria's patron saint, offering stunning sea views and a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere.
"An amazing place to visit with beautiful sights, nature, architecture, and energy."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and some low doorways, so good footwear is a must!
📸 Drone Photography Restricted
Be aware that drone usage is generally not permitted at the sanctuary.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sanctuary's Terrace
Overlooking the gorge
Breathtaking panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and surrounding hills. A truly peaceful spot.
Gothic Facade
Main Church Entrance
Admire the stunning, historic gothic architecture that stands as a testament to centuries of devotion.
Nativity Scenes (Presepi)
Adjacent to the old church
Marvel at incredibly detailed, hand-carved nativity scenes displayed during Christmas and Easter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Navigating the Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and some low doorways, so good footwear is a must!
📸 Drone Photography Restricted
Be aware that drone usage is generally not permitted at the sanctuary.
🧘 Find Your Inner Peace
Many visitors find this a deeply calming and spiritual place.
🌊 Nearby Beach Access
The sea is not far, making it easy to combine a visit with some beach time.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and some low doorways, so good footwear is a must!
📸 Drone Photography Restricted
Be aware that drone usage is generally not permitted at the sanctuary.
🧘 Find Your Inner Peace
Many visitors find this a deeply calming and spiritual place.
🌊 Nearby Beach Access
The sea is not far, making it easy to combine a visit with some beach time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Santuario di San Francesco di Paola for its beautiful, peaceful atmosphere and stunning sea views from the terrace. The historical architecture, particularly the gothic facade, and the detailed nativity scenes are also highlighted as major draws. Some note the presence of stairs and low openings as a minor physical consideration. +2
"Beautifully maintained with tons of history. If you're into that kinda thing or appreciate holy/religious areas this is definitely a worthwhile visit. Great view of the sea as well. The beach is not to far away if you need to convince others it's a good idea! :P"
Alessandro Bisceglia
"Very beautiful and peaceful. Has some tough stairs and low openings. And apparently does not allow drones"
Kevin Miskell
"Santuario di San Francesco di Paola is a glorious shrine to the revered saint of Calabria located over a gorge in the hills above Paola with magnificent views over the Tyrrhenian Sea.the church itself is quite simple inside but with a stunning gothic facade and a beautiful terrace and ample parking. Adjacent to the old church is a spectacular new chapel where a lot of services are held . They also allow you to view their fabulous hand carved presepi, the nativity scenes with unbelievably carved figures in glorious colours which are displayed to the public at Christmas and Easter."
Vibha Rao
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is located in Paola, Calabria, perched on a hill above the town. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transport options might involve buses or trains to Paola, followed by a taxi or a walk uphill.
Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors at the Santuario di San Francesco di Paola, which is convenient for those arriving by car.
From Paola town, you can reach the sanctuary by car, taxi, or a brisk uphill walk. The location is described as being in the upper, hilly part of Paola.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding entrance fees is not widely available, suggesting it may be free to enter the sanctuary grounds and main church.
Specific opening hours are not consistently mentioned, but it's generally advisable to visit during daylight hours, especially on weekdays for a more peaceful experience.
The stunning hand-carved nativity scenes are typically displayed to the public during Christmas and Easter.
Visitors should be aware of the stairs and low openings within the sanctuary. Drone photography is also generally not permitted.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the historic gothic facade, the new chapel for services, and the terrace offering magnificent sea views. The presepi (nativity scenes) are also a major draw during specific seasons.
The sanctuary involves stairs and some low openings, which might pose challenges for individuals with significant mobility issues.
Many visitors describe the atmosphere as very beautiful, peaceful, and spiritual, offering a sense of calm and positive energy. +1
The sanctuary is dedicated to San Francesco di Paola, the patron saint of Calabria, and hosts religious services and celebrations, particularly around his feast day.
General photography is usually allowed, but be mindful of any posted restrictions, especially during services. Drone photography is not permitted.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Specific dining facilities within the sanctuary itself are not widely mentioned. However, the town of Paola offers various restaurants and cafes.
In Paola, you can expect traditional Calabrian cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, local produce, and regional specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
The terrace offers stunning panoramic views of the sea and coastline. The gothic facade and the intricate details of the presepi are also excellent subjects.
No, drone photography is generally not permitted at the Santuario di San Francesco di Paola.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for the sea views and the sanctuary's architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children to explore more comfortably. The nearby beach offers a great way to balance a cultural visit with fun for the kids.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Pilgrims
+3Visitors often report experiencing a profound sense of calm, peace, and positive energy within its walls and grounds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Life and Legacy of San Francesco di Paola
+2His legacy is preserved through numerous sanctuaries and churches dedicated to him across Calabria and beyond. Visitors often come to these sites seeking spiritual solace, inspired by his humility, faith, and acts of charity. The sanctuary in Paola is a focal point for this devotion, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike to experience the sacred atmosphere and learn about his life.
The sanctuary itself is built over a gorge, a dramatic setting that adds to its mystique. The architecture, including the gothic facade and the newer chapel, reflects different eras of its history and development. The presence of relics and sites associated with his miracles further enhances its significance for believers.
Architectural Highlights and Views
One of the most frequently praised features is the magnificent terrace that provides breathtaking panoramic views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. This vantage point is a highlight for many visitors, offering a serene backdrop and excellent photo opportunities.
For those interested in unique displays, the sanctuary is known for its fabulous hand-carved presepi (nativity scenes). These incredibly detailed artworks, with their gloriously colored figures, are a special attraction, particularly during the Christmas and Easter seasons.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit