Paola – the city of St. Francis and the miraculous spring

On the Calabrian coast, between the sea and the mountains, lies the town of Paola. It's not just another Mediterranean resort—this is where St. Francis of Paola (1416–1507), a hermit, founder of the Order of Minims, and the patron saint of all Calabria, was born. His life story, miracles, and deep faith continue to attract pilgrims and tourists. Paola offers a unique combination of spirituality, tradition, and Mediterranean charm. Whether you come for St. Francis, to taste Calabrian specialties, or just for the joy of exploration, the town will win you over.

It won me over gradually, and literally in the sweat of my brow. First, I stepped out of the station, thinking that in such a small place, there's no need to study a map. And yet, there were no signs to the center, nor any sidewalks leading anywhere. So, thank goodness for Google, right? Without a sidewalk, I followed the roads according to Google to the stairs—about 300 meters from the station, and then there was consideration for pedestrians. The stairs were long, in the sun, and the lack of accessibility made me laugh all the way to the top. Italians, in general, seem to treat pedestrians like foreigners.

At the end of the staircase, there's a cozy park with statues representing the four seasons and a welcome number of mature trees, so I was finally able to catch my breath, find my pulse, and hide a bit in the shade. Then came the center of the small town, with its church, gate, narrow streets, and Sunday silence.

You can find the way to the monastery from the town center by following signs similar to those on the Camino, just with their own graphics, of course. Well, a 20-minute walk uphill to the monastery should be easy. It wasn't. Even though the late afternoon sun is waning, it can still muster up to thirty degrees, and climbing without shade doesn't help the mood. Nevertheless, I'm here, hurray. Truly an uplifting feeling, not just from the spirituality all around.

Santuario di San Francesco di Paola - a magnificent monastery that is definitely worth seeing. Here you will find both the old and new basilica, a museum, and a tranquil courtyard. The place also has a strong atmosphere. 

The Miraculous Spring

One of the most popular spots on the grounds is the spring called "cucchiarella." According to legend, it burst forth when Francis struck the rock with his staff. People take water from it in bottles, believing it brings healing, relief, or blessings. Whether you believe in its miraculous effects or not, stopping by the spring is simply part of the visit. Of course, I waited in a short line—after all, it's free, it's famous, it's miraculous, and since I'm here, a miracle might just come in handy, right? The lady in front of me was filling up miraculous water for what seemed like her entire extended family, but I eventually got my turn. The water is truly delicious and refreshing. Even if nothing else, in this heat, that's certainly a small miracle. We'll see what miracles that little bottle I have with me will do for me.

But Saint Francis has more miracles to his name. If you're interested in the individual stories, check the internet so I don't have to rewrite novels here.

However, as basic information:

• He crossed the Strait of Messina on his cloak when a boatman refused to ferry him.
• He tamed and revived a fish named Antonella.
• He stopped a great fire that threatened Paola.
• He helped the sick and suffering.
• And he gave people the very spring of water that still flows in the monastery today.

A walk around the grounds is very nice, with pleasant facilities, coffee, souvenirs, and of course, stalls with mementos already at the parking lot.

And lest I forget, I took the train from Scalea, about 50 minutes, and it runs several times a day for a flat rate of €5 per person per ride/direction. However, you can also comfortably drive here by car; there's parking right at the monastery, and you can skip the uphill climb. If you have small children or are here during the peak season, I highly recommend the car option. On the other hand, if you're looking for an afternoon trip when it's no longer suitable for swimming, this is one of my top favorites.

In the old basilica, photography is not allowed, so you'll have to see Francis with your own eyes.