Ruffo Castle

The Ruffo Castle in Scilla stands on a panoramic promontory overlooking the Strait of Messina, along the Costa Viola in the province of Reggio Calabria, and represents the ‘genius loci’ of Scilla together with the characteristic Chianalea district. The first fortification of the cliff against pirate raids dates back to the 5th century BC, under the tyrant Anaxilas of Reggio. The impregnability of the cliff was only violated by Dionysius of Syracuse in 390 BC. Further reinforced by Emperor Octavian, it is described by Pliny the Elder as “Oppidum Scyllaeum”: a large fortified settlement. In 1060, the Castle of Scilla surrendered due to starvation to Robert Guiscard, who made it a military garrison. In the 15th century, it was granted by Ferdinand I, King of Naples, and finally, in 1533, it was purchased by Paolo Ruffo, who restored it and made it his princely residence.

Heavily damaged by the earthquakes of 1783 and 1908, the Ruffo Castle in Scilla was restored and is now one of the best-preserved castles in Calabria to visit. It is a venue for events and conferences, and since 1913, it has housed the Scilla Lighthouse at the top, a must-see for those who love tours of historic lighthouses. The Castle of Scilla has an irregular layout but retains the overall homogeneous configuration of a fortress with curtain walls, towers and loopholes. The entrance is preceded by a bridge leading to the portal, with a pointed arch, on which the noble coat of arms of the Ruffo family stands out. Beyond the vaulted entrance hall is a courtyard, and from here, a large staircase leads to the entrance of the residence and its interior rooms.

The latter, offering panoramic views of the entire coast, display artefacts, models, naturalistic specimens and artefacts related to the traditional practice of swordfish fishing in Scilla.