The Arena Castle, built in the 11th century by the Normans, occupies a strategic position. Halfway between the Ionian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea, it represents one of the most original architectural finds in central-southern Calabria.

It was built by Roger to defend Mileto, in a strategic and impregnable location, and is set on a mighty rocky spur. Roger’s thought was to defend the capital from a sudden attack from behind coming from the east coast. To accomplish this important task, Roger Conclubet was installed as the first Count of Arena, whose descendants continued to rule in the Arena for a good 600 years.

It is thanks to this castle that the so-called ‘Castellana di Arena’ is held every year. This historical re-enactment of the splendours of the Arena in the year 1000 is a great success and attracts large crowds.

A veritable leap into the past where medieval culture is projected amidst dancing, music, flag-wavers, soldiers and displays of weaponry of the time.