Stilo

Stilo is an agricultural centre at the foot of the mountain Consolino, in the Reggio Calabria province. The ancient village arranged in tiers, is characterized by dark stone houses that seem to be painted in the rock. Of Greek origin, and subsequently under the dominion of the Byzantines, it became the most important Byzantine centre of southern Calabria in the 10th century. Known for being the birthplace of the philosopher Tommaso Campanella, author of "The City of the Sun", it is characterized by one of the main evidences of the Byzantine period: the Cattolica, a beautiful temple of 10th century. It is one of the most important monuments in the region, which is miraculously intact. Stilo's origins are linked to the destruction of Caulonia accomplished by Dionysius of Syracuse. It quickly grew in importance and became the most important Byzantine centre of southern Calabria in the10th century. It is an extraordinary example of resistance to the Normans and tenacious loyalty to the Anjou, who rendered it one of the most important castles in the region. Stilo is a Byzantine hamlet of the 10th century, located at the foot of the mountain Consolino, dominated by the ruins of what was once a great and mighty Norman Castle.