On a hill overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea stand the remains of a medieval village, abandoned after a naval bombardment in the early 19th century. Its strategic position, chosen for defence against Saracen raids, now offers clear views over the modern town and the coastline of the Riviera dei Cedri. Visitors can walk among the ruins of stone houses, the castle, and the Church of San Nicola Magno, where pointed arches still reach towards the sky. Below, the small Isola di Cirella lies just off the coast. This limestone outcrop, covered in Mediterranean scrub and topped with the ruins of a 16th-century watchtower, is surrounded by clear water. The seabed is known for its meadows of Posidonia oceanica and the presence of the *Pinna nobilis*, a rare giant clam. While it is possible to reach the island by kayak or small boat, swimming from the mainland is not advised. From the main SS18 coastal road at the modern town of Cirella, take the winding road that climbs the hill towards the ruins of the old village. After a short drive, there is a small car park next to the archaeological site. From here, a main path leads up into the ruins. The area is open to explore, though some smaller paths can be overgrown. To visit the island, boat trips and canoe hire are typically available from the beaches at Cirella or the nearby town of Diamante. Sources: My Bella Vita Travel; Calabrisella Mia; Italia.it; Calabria Region Official Tourism website.