Strange And Unusual Places In Italy That Are Worth A Visit
If off the beaten path, unusual, or even creepy are words you'd use to describe your type of travel destination, this list is for you:
Italy, a land of extraordinary beauty and rich cultural heritage, has long captivated the hearts of travelers seeking luxurious and bespoke experiences. While iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa never fail to amaze, today we invite you to journey off the beaten path and explore some of the country's offbeat and downright odd attractions. Join us as we uncover the strange, unusual, and unique gems that make Italy an enchanting destination for the curious adventurer.
L.O.V.E. "Il Dito" Statue in Milan: A Touch of Provocative Art
As you stroll through the cosmopolitan streets of Milan, keep an eye out for a bold symbol of rebellion against convention: the L.O.V.E. Middle Finger statue. This sculpture, created by the Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, challenges traditional notions of love with it's name, "L.O.V.E." standing for Liberta, Odio, Vendetta, and Eternita (Freedom, hate, vengence, eternity). It stands directly in front of the Italian Stock Exchange building, a testament to Milan's avant-garde art scene that serves as a striking reminder that beauty comes in many forms. The best part is that its free to visit! Check out more free activities around Milan and other Italian cities over on our Instagram page.
Sacro Bosco in Bomarzo: A Surreal Garden of Monsters
Venture into the mystical realm of Sacro Bosco, also known as the Park of Monsters. Located in Bomarzo, this extraordinary garden was designed in the 16th century and is adorned with bizarre and fantastical sculptures. Explore hidden pathways and encounter mythical creatures, giant stone elephants, and twisted architectural wonders that transport you to another realm. Sacro Bosco is a true testament to the boundless imagination of its creator, Pier Francesco Orsini. Located about an hour and a half north of Rome.
Christ of the Abyss in San Fruttuoso: An Underwater Marvel
Dive into the depths of the Mediterranean Sea near San Fruttuoso not far from Genoa, and you'll discover a breathtaking sight: the Christ of the Abyss. This submerged bronze statue, depicting Christ with arms outstretched, is a poignant symbol of peace and protection for divers and marine life alike. Replicas have been made around the world, like the one in Key Largo, but nothing truly compares to this breathtaking statue off the coast of Liguria. Witness the interplay between art, nature, and spirituality as you delve into the crystal-clear waters to encounter this awe-inspiring masterpiece.
Naples Underground: A Journey Beneath the Surface
Unveiling the hidden layers of Naples' history, the Naples Underground offers a captivating journey through time. Descend below the bustling city streets to explore an intricate labyrinth of tunnels, catacombs, and ancient aqueducts. Marvel at the remnants of a Roman theater and discover the secrets of this underground city, where stories of ancient civilizations and urban legends intertwine.
Lake Resia: A Surreal Sunken Village
Nestled amidst the majestic Alpine landscape, Lake Resia holds a poignant secret. Beneath its tranquil waters lies the submerged village of Curon Venosta, whose church bell tower eerily emerges from the lake's surface. The sight is a haunting reminder of the past, where a flooded valley created an unexpected and mesmerizing spectacle. A visit to Lake Resia offers a serene escape and a fascinating tale of a submerged community northwest of Bolzano near the Swiss border.
The Museum of Purgatory in Rome: A Journey into the Afterlife
In the heart of Rome, tucked away within the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, lies an eerie and thought-provoking museum: the Museum of Purgatory. Here, you'll find haunting artifacts such as burnt handprints on fabrics and scorched imprints on books, believed to be evidence of souls reaching out from purgatory. Delve into the mysteries of the afterlife as you contemplate the fragile boundary between the physical and spiritual realms.
Capuchin Catacombs in Palermo: A Glimpse of Mortality
Prepare to be both mesmerized and humbled as you descend into the eerie underworld of the Capuchin Catacombs in Palermo. A collection of mummified bodies and skeletal remains, dressed in their finest attire, line the catacombs' corridors. This unique burial site serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life and offers a contemplative space to reflect on the passage of time.
Cemetery Monumentale in Milan: An Open-Air Museum of Sculpture
