Tropea - Chiesa di Michelizia

A legend has it that the city was founded by Hercules when he returned from his work on the Pillars of Hercules.

The settlement has been the seat of a diocese since the 7th century. In 1094 a Latin clergyman succeeded the Greek bishops for the first time. Around 1000 Tropea developed into a prosperous city, favored by tax and administrative freedom.

In the 13th century, Tropea was rebuilt to its current state, on a rock overlooking the sea to protect it from Saracen incursions. Over the centuries, regular earthquakes caused severe damage on the city, causing the residents to rebuild the city on top of the ruins after each tremor.

In the 19th century, the city began to decline for a long time, which could only be reversed with the start of tourism. Today this is a seaside resort, and due to its location and the well-preserved old town, Tropea is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Calabria.

The origins date back to the 13th century, dedicated to Santa Maria della Neve. It is known as "Chiesa Michelizia" named after Sicilian merchant Michele Militia, who in a stormy night in the middle of the sea was in danger and made a vow to the Madonna, if he were to be saved, to build a church. Immediately a light appeared on the shore and the merchant was saved and built right there the church in honor of the Madonna della Neve.