Pizzo: Scolacium Archaeology Park & Serre Natural Park Tour

Venture into the captivating realm of ancient history and untamed natural beauty with the Pizzo: Scolacium Archaeology Park & Serre Natural Park Tour. This immersive experience promises to transport you back in time as you explore the ruins of Scolacium, uncovering the rich cultural heritage of Calabria. From the grandeur of public baths to the serenity of sacred temples, every step reveals a new layer of the region’s storied past. But the adventure doesn’t end there – prepare to be enchanted by the picturesque town of Serra San Bruno, where you’ll uncover the secrets of Italy’s first Carthusian monastery and the tranquil Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In Lamezia Terme.

Key Points

• The tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the National Archaeological Park of Scolacium, showcasing ancient Roman history and ruins.

• The itinerary includes visits to the charming town of Serra San Bruno, known for its local crafts and the Charterhouse, the first Carthusian monastery in Italy.

• The tour includes entrance fees, lunch featuring local products, and a live Italian-fluent guide, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience.

• The tour is not wheelchair accessible due to natural terrain and historic sites, and a moderate level of physical ability is required.

• Visitors can explore the scenic overlooks, ancient fir trees, and the connection between the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco and St. Bruno’s legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers a comprehensive experience, priced from $1,355.02 for up to 3 participants, with a duration of 10 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.

The itinerary includes a 3-hour exploration of the National Archaeological Park of Scolacium, a historic Roman colony, followed by a visit to the charming town of Serra San Bruno, known for its local crafts and the Charterhouse.

The tour also takes visitors to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, a site with significant historical and natural significance.

With entrance fees, lunch, and a live Italian-fluent guide included, this tour provides an immersive experience in the region’s archaeology, nature, and culture.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour starts at 9:00 a.m. with an arrival and 3-hour exploration of the National Archaeological Park of Scolacium, a former Roman colony rich in history.

Afterward, the group departs for Serra San Bruno, a 1-hour journey, where they’ll briefly tour the historic center known for its local crafts.

At 3:30 p.m., the group will visit the exterior of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, including the Charterhouse Museum.

The final stop is the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, renowned for its historical significance and natural beauty, at 5:00 p.m.

Throughout the day, you will enjoy a lunch featuring local products and a live Italian-speaking tour guide.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour package includes the entrance fees to all the sites visited, providing a comprehensive experience.

Participants will also enjoy a lunch featuring local products as part of the tour.

Plus, a live tour guide fluent in Italian is provided to lead the group throughout the day.

The entire tour is a private group experience, allowing for a personalized and attentive exploration of the region’s natural and cultural attractions.

This ensures that visitors can fully enjoy the history, architecture, and natural beauty of the Scolacium Archaeology Park and Serre Natural Park without any logistical hassles.

The inclusions and amenities make this tour an excellent value for those seeking an in-depth discovery of this remarkable area.

Natural and Cultural Attractions

Visitors to the Pizzo: Scolacium Archaeology Park & Serre Natural Park Tour can enjoy the rich history and untouched natural beauty of the region.

The National Archaeological Park of Scolacium, a former Roman colony, offers a glimpse into the area’s storied past as a city of Magna Graecia.

The tour also explores the stunning Serre Regional Natural Park, known for its:

• Unspoiled nature

• Fascinating art and cultural heritage

• Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, the first Carthusian monastery in Italy

• Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, a historic site surrounded by ancient fir trees

• Picturesque town of Serra San Bruno, famous for its local crafts

This comprehensive tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to discover the natural and cultural wonders of southern Italy.

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Accessibility and Booking Information

This tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users due to the natural terrain and historic sites visited. Interested parties can check availability for specific dates and starting times.

Accessibility	Booking
Not wheelchair accessible	Check availability
Uneven paths and stairs at sites	Flexible start times

The tour requires a moderate level of physical ability to navigate the archaeological park and natural areas. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for some uphill climbs. By checking availability in advance, guests can ensure the tour aligns with their scheduling needs and accessibility requirements.

Exploring Scolacium Archaeological Park

One begins the exploration of Scolacium Archaeological Park with a 3-hour journey through the ruins of this former Roman colony, immersing visitors in the rich history and architectural wonders of the ancient city.

The park features a wealth of archaeological treasures, including:

• Remains of public baths, temples, and a well-preserved amphitheater.

• Ruins of aristocratic villas and merchants’ shops that provide insights into daily life.

• Artifacts such as pottery, statues, and mosaics that showcase the artistic and cultural achievements of the Magna Graecia civilization.

• Informative signage and guided tours that bring the site’s history to life.

• Picturesque landscapes and scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Discovering Serra San Bruno

After exploring the ancient ruins of Scolacium, the tour heads to the charming town of Serra San Bruno, a hub of local crafts and home to the renowned Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno.

The group will briefly visit the historic center, known as Terravecchia, to see the local artisans at work. Then, they’ll head to the exterior of the Charterhouse, the first Carthusian monastery in Italy that’s still actively inhabited by monks.

The tour will also include a stop at the Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, a historic site surrounded by ancient fir trees where St. Bruno once became a hermit.

This leg of the journey offers a glimpse into the region’s unique natural and cultural heritage.

Visiting Charterhouse and Sanctuary

The tour next visits the exterior of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, the first Carthusian monastery established in Italy that continues to be inhabited by monks today. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the museum within the Charterhouse complex, learning about its rich history and significance.

Following this, the group will proceed to the renowned Sanctuary of Santa Maria nel Bosco, a historic site surrounded by ancient fir trees where St. Bruno once became a hermit. This offers visitors a chance to appreciate the natural beauty and spiritual legacy of the location.

The highlights of this portion of the tour include:

• Exploring the Charterhouse Museum’s collection

• Learning about the Carthusian order and its traditions

• Admiring the Sanctuary’s picturesque natural setting

• Discovering the connection between the site and St. Bruno

• Experiencing the serene and spiritual atmosphere

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Available in Languages Other Than Italian?

The tour is offered with a live Italian-speaking guide. It’s unclear if the tour is available in other languages, so travelers should check with the tour operator about language options that may be provided on request.

What Level of Physical Fitness Is Required for This Tour?

This tour involves moderate physical activity, including some walking over uneven terrain. Visitors should have a decent level of fitness to fully enjoy the archaeological site and natural park visits. Those with mobility issues may find certain aspects challenging.

Are There Any Specific Dress Code Requirements for the Sites?

There are no strict dress code requirements, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain at archaeological and natural sites. Modesty is advised when visiting religious sites.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?

The tour operator can typically customize the itinerary to suit participants’ preferences, within reason. They’ll work with you to adjust the schedule, activities, and sites visited to match your interests while staying within the tour’s overall scope and duration.

Can We Purchase Additional Food or Drinks During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase additional food or drinks during the tour. The tour includes a lunch featuring local products, but you’re free to purchase any other snacks or beverages you’d like throughout the day.

Recap

The Pizzo: Scolacium Archaeology Park & Serre Natural Park Tour provides an immersive experience into Calabria’s rich history and natural beauty.

Visitors can explore ancient ruins, discover picturesque towns, and indulge in local cuisine, all while accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.

Whether interested in archaeology, architecture, or simply soaking in the region’s tranquil charm, this tour offers a well-rounded and accessible way to experience the highlights of this captivating area.

You can check if your dates are available here: