The stone remains of a medieval fortress and village stand on a hill overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Part of the abandoned settlement of Cirella Vecchia, the ruins occupy a defensive position 172m above the modern coastline, offering wide views over the Riviera dei Cedri. The castle formed the centrepiece of the walled town, which included the ruins of two churches: the Chiesa di San Nicola Magno and the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Neve. The settlement has Byzantine and Norman characteristics and was founded in the Middle Ages when inhabitants moved inland to escape Saracen raids. It was ultimately abandoned following a heavy bombardment by Napoleonic forces in 1806–1807. Visitors can explore the exposed foundations and remaining walls of the fortress and the surrounding village.
The ruins are located in the municipality of Diamante. From the main coastal road (SS18), follow signs for ‘Ruderi di Cirella’ or ‘Teatro dei Ruderi’. The best place to park is the free car park for the theatre, which is located a two-minute walk from the archaeological area. The site is reached via a short uphill path from the car park.
Note: The site is an open-air ruin and there are no official opening hours or entrance fees mentioned in available sources.
Sources: Calabria Region Official Tourism website; Komoot; e-borghi; Calabrisella Mia.