Cattolica di Stilo

Cattolica di Stilo is a beautiful, 900 year old Byzantine style basilica in the small town of Stilo, Italy, located in the Calabria region. Inside, visitors will find unique frescoes dating back to the 11th century and ornate stonework featuring intricate geometric designs. The most striking feature of the church is its three separate domed roofs, visible from its façade. The surprise inside the building is discovered when taking a closer look at the walls and floor. Not only one of the oldest churches in Italy, it is also considered one of the most important architectural monuments of Italy’s Byzantine period. It is said to be the home of the Stilidea school of thought, considered a fundamental component of the Italian Renaissance. If you’re in the area, a visit to Cattolica di Stilo is certainly worth the trip.