Pizzo

Pizzo Calabro, commonly referred to as Pizzo, is a town and comune in the province of Vibo Valentia in the Calabria region of southern Italy. It is situated on the Tyrrhenian coast along the Costa degli Dei, facing the Gulf of Sant’Eufemia, and lies between the towns of Vibo Valentia and Tropea. The municipality has around 11,000 residents.

The town’s skyline is dominated by Castello Murat, a seaside fortress overlooking the harbor. The castle, dating from the late medieval period and later associated with the Napoleonic era, serves as a prominent landmark. Another major site is the Piedigrotta, a church carved directly into the rock along the coast and accessible by stairways from the beach. The historic center also contains churches and palazzi that reflect Renaissance and Baroque influences.

Pizzo is renowned for its culinary heritage, especially the Tartufo di Pizzo, a large ice-cream dessert presented as a two-flavor ball encased in a chocolate shell and finished with a cocoa coating. The dessert has become a symbol of the town and is widely associated with its culinary identity.

Economy in Pizzo is based on fishing, tourism, and agriculture, including olive oil and citrus production. The coastal location, beaches, and cultural sites attract visitors, particularly in the summer months. The area has medieval origins and has been part of various states, most notably the Kingdom of Naples, shaping its historical and architectural character.