In the South of Italy, in the 'toe of the boot', is the beautiful region of Calabria. It is often called the Caribbean of Europe and is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea on three sides. To the East is the Ionian Sea, to the West is the Tyrrhenian and to the south is the Strait of Messina. As there are warm seas on three sides it is hardly surprising that the sea has been a major part of Calabria's history, culture and cuisine. Until recently Calabria was a fairly poor region in Italy but now, with investment growing in the area, it has become a hotspot for people wanting to buy Calabria property either for their own use or as an investment for the future. If you are thinking of investing in the area here are five reasons why it may be a great idea.

Scenery

As Calabria is relatively unspoiled, the surrounding countryside and beaches are superb. There is mile upon mile of pristine beaches just waiting to be lounged upon. The Mediterranean Sea, lapping against the white sands, is clean, warm and inviting and the surrounding countryside is equally impressive. To the north, separating Calabria from the rest of Italy, are the majestic Pollino Mountains; there are also heavily wooded areas throughout the region.

History

Throughout the region you can see many historic sites from the various different cultures that have shaped the area over the centuries. There are a plethora of Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Norman temples and buildings; not only are these sites spectacular to visit but they are also a testimony to the rich Calabrian history. Catanzaro, for example, is known as 'the city between two seas' as you can see both the Ionian Sea and Tyrrhenian Sea from within its walls. Here you can find a Norman cathedral built in 1121 and the remains of a Norman castle. Another example is Squillace, which is one of Italy's most important archeological sites. It was once the location of the ancient Athenian city of Scylletium.

Climate

The climate is one of extremes. Although it is principally Mediterranean, there is snow in the mountains and it is possible to ski here in the winter. Generally it is mild in the winter and hot and dry in the summer, making for almost ideal weather conditions. In the mountains, during the winter, the temperature can hit as low as 0 degrees whereas in the valleys, during the heights of summer, it can get as hot as 40 degrees.

Food

Although the food here is typically southern Italian there are a few delicious differences. Obviously fish is important, for example, there is regional dish called Alici ripieni, which is a tasty platter of stuffed anchovies. The area is also renowned for curing fish such as swordfish, cod and sardines. Many Calabrian dishes are quite hot and spicy due to the popularity of cayenne pepper and peperoncino peppers.

House Prices

On top of all of this the house prices are still affordable and come with many other benefits. As it is an emerging market the house prices are still quite low in comparison to other places in Italy. You can also get 80% mortgages on a Calabria property from many high street banks and other financial institutions. The area offers low entry prices and there are some excellent beachfront properties available, what's more there is no capital gains tax.

The Calabrian government is planning to make vast investments in the area and this is expected to continue until 2013. However prices are rising, last year it is estimated that prices went up by 30% and it is expected to go up by another 15-20% each year for at least the next five years. If you are interested in property in the area then visit the website of a company who are specialists in Calabria property.

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