Corso Garibaldi (Reggio Calabria)
Calabria
Corso Garibaldi is the principal street in the historic center of Reggio Calabria, stretching over two kilometers and largely pedestrianized. It connects the northern part of the city near Piazza De Nava to the southern neighborhoods at Piazza Garibaldi. This avenue is a vital economic and commercial hub, hosting the city's most exclusive shops, elegant cafes, and renowned bars. Its urban layout was established after the 1783 earthquake, which led to a reconstruction plan inspired by Enlightenment ideals, replacing the medieval street pattern with a grid system. Originally named Corso Borbonico, it was renamed Corso Garibaldi in 1861 following Garibaldi's conquest of the city. The catastrophic 1908 earthquake destroyed much of the city's monumental heritage, and the current architectural structure dates from the subsequent urban plan by engineer Pietro De Nava, featuring buildings limited to two floors with new squares and widened spaces. Along the street, visitors find numerous historic palaces in Liberty and neoclassical styles, important churches such as the Gothic-style Church of San Giuseppe and the neoclassical Temple of Victory (S. Giorgio al Corso), as well as cultural institutions like the Teatro Comunale housing the civic art gallery and a documentation center for Calabrian folk arts. Corso Garibaldi remains the pulsating heart of Reggio Calabria's social, economic, and cultural life, reflecting its rich history and vibrant contemporary character.
Plan your trip to Italy with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Corso Garibaldi is during the spring and early autumn months when the weather is pleasant for leisurely strolls along this largely pedestrian street. Visitors are advised to explore the street on foot to fully appreciate its architectural details, shops, and cafes. While the street is open to the public without an entrance fee, checking for any local events or festivals can enhance the experience. Advance reservations are recommended for cultural venues like the Teatro Comunale to ensure availability. Discounts may be available for students or seniors at museums or exhibitions along the route.
Interesting facts
- •Corso Garibaldi was originally called Corso Borbonico before being renamed in honor of Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1861.
- •The street was designed following a grid pattern inspired by Enlightenment urban planning after the 1783 earthquake.
- •The 1908 earthquake led to a new urban plan limiting building heights to two floors and creating new squares along the street.
- •From 1918 until 1937, a tram line operated along Corso Garibaldi, connecting various parts of the city.
- •The Teatro Comunale on Corso Garibaldi hosts the civic art gallery and a center dedicated to Calabrian folk arts.
History
Corso Garibaldi originated after the 1783 earthquake when the Bourbon government implemented a reconstruction plan based on Enlightenment urban models, replacing the medieval street layout with a grid system.
Initially named Corso Borbonico, it was renamed in 1861 after Garibaldi's conquest.
The devastating 1908 earthquake destroyed most of the city's monumental buildings, leading to a new urban plan by engineer Pietro De Nava, which preserved the grid layout but imposed building height limits and created new public squares.
From 1918 to 1937, the street was served by the city's tram network.
Today, it retains much of its early 20th-century architectural character and remains a central artery for commerce and culture in Reggio Calabria.
Place Guide
Piazza De Nava and Monument to Giuseppe De Nava
Located at the northern start of Corso Garibaldi, this square features a monument dedicated to Giuseppe De Nava, a notable figure in the city's history, marking the gateway to the street.
Palazzo Coriglianoearly 20th century
An elegant Liberty-style palace showcasing early 20th-century architectural design, representing the refined urban character of Corso Garibaldi.
Church of San Giuseppe1598 (original)
Originally dating back to 1598, this Gothic-style church has been rebuilt multiple times due to seismic events. It houses notable paintings, a valuable altarpiece, and wrought-iron lighting fixtures.
Palazzo della Banca d'Italia
Historic building housing the Bank of Italy, contributing to the economic significance of Corso Garibaldi.
Temple of Victory (Church of S. Giorgio al Corso)early 20th century
A neoclassical church dedicated to the city's patron saint, Saint George, notable for its stained-glass lunette depicting Saint George slaying the dragon and its fascist-era commemorative architecture.
Palazzo Mazzitelliearly 20th century
A palace combining classical and Liberty architectural influences, enhancing the street's aesthetic diversity.
Teatro Comunale Francesco Cileaearly 20th century
Named after the renowned Calabrian composer Francesco Cilea, this theater hosts the civic art gallery and the Documentation Center of Calabrian Popular Arts, exhibiting rural crafts and material culture artifacts.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II (Piazza Italia)1868 (monument)
A prominent square along Corso Garibaldi featuring the 1868 Monument to Italy by Rocco Larussa, surrounded by important administrative buildings and archaeological excavations uncovered in 2000.
Palazzo Nesciearly 19th century
The only building on Corso Garibaldi to survive the 1908 earthquake, it dates back to the early 19th century and features a neoclassical stone portal and a sturdy stone and wood structure.
Piazzetta Camagna
A small square dedicated to the prominent local figure Camagna, featuring a bronze statue in his honor.
