Varapodio: Squares, History and Traditions

Varapodio lies on a flat plain at the foot of the Aspromonte, where the Marro River—formerly called the Metauro—and the Calabrò stream meet. Two squares are central landmarks in the historic center: San Nicola and Santo Stefano. Via Umberto I continues Via Dogali and connects these two main squares. This route helps you find your way around the town center; fountains, a church and preserved architectural features also point to different chapters in the town’s history.

Squares, Fountains and Architectural History

Piazza San Nicola is home to the Fontana Asso di Coppe, considered Varapodio’s most distinctive landmark. The fountain was originally called “Fontana dei quattro canali.” Its later name comes from its striking resemblance to the ace of diamonds in Neapolitan playing cards. In 2002, the fountain was reconstructed based on a design by architect Santo Fedele.

The Chiesa di San Nicola is also among the town’s notable historic buildings: it was built between 1927 and 1929 and is classified as eclectic in style. Piazze San Nicola and Santo Stefano are open to everyone free of charge. Municipal information on free access to both squares was last updated on May 2, 2024; check local conditions before your trip.

From the Early Settlement to Today’s Center

The first settlement of Varapodio arose in the 9th or 10th century in the Salvatore area, about three kilometers downstream from today’s town center and west of the Marro River. Between the end of the 15th century and the beginning of the 17th, the residents of Barapodi moved uphill from the San Salvatore area to the present-day location, where the new Varapodi emerged and developed. This part of the town’s history has been passed down partly through oral tradition.

After the devastating earthquake of the 18th century, Varapodio was rebuilt on the same site. Many original decorative, structural and architectural features have been preserved in the historic center. One specific example is the portal of Palazzo Faccioli: it is fully intact and bears witness to the artistic craftsmanship of earlier times. The town’s development can therefore be explored through both its settlement history and individual surviving architectural features.

Festivals and the Bergamot Tradition

The Feast of Madonna del Carmine is celebrated on the Sunday closest to July 16. The evocative descent of the Madonna takes place on the preceding Saturday. Saint Nicholas, the town’s patron saint, is celebrated on December 6. If you would like to plan your trip around one of these occasions, confirm the relevant festival program locally.

Among Varapodio’s distinctive crafts are the “tabacchiere di Varapodio”: ampoule-shaped snuffboxes made from inverted, dried bergamot peel. Don Antonino De Masi learned the related craft technique from local farmers. BergArte in Varapodio offers guided tours of its workshop for schools and organized groups. Visitors are introduced to traditional and advanced techniques for processing bergamot peel. Reservations are recommended for these group visits; confirm the details in advance.

Discover more destinations: Bova Marina, Locri, Ardore Marina, Oppido Mamertina, Brancaleone Superiore, Condofuri, Marina Di Caulonia, Riace Marina.

For the broader travel overview: Reggio Calabria.