San Lorenzo is a municipality located in the Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria, in the region of Calabria. The municipal territory includes the hamlets of Chorio, San Pantaleone, and San Lorenzo Marina.
Historical Background
San Lorenzo has Byzantine origins and preserved the Greek language until the first half of the 18th century. The municipality played a significant role during Garibaldi's landing in Melito Porto Salvo in 1860. Alberto Mario, one of Garibaldi's companions, recounts that the mayor of San Lorenzo, Bruno Rossi, offered refuge to the Garibaldini who were being pursued by Bourbon troops. This act contributed to the success of Garibaldi's expedition in the conquest of Reggio Calabria.
Cultural and Natural Heritage
The Church of San Lorenzo preserves a marble statue of the Madonna della Neve from the 16th century and a wooden statue of Saint Lawrence from the 18th century. In the main square stands an ancient elm tree, considered a natural monument. Nearby, the Sanctuary of Maria SS. Assunta della Cappella, built in the 17th century, houses an icon of the Black Madonna probably dating back to the 12th century.
Hamlets
• Chorio: home to the Church of San Pasquale Baylon, dating back to the 19th century.
• San Pantaleone: known for the Church of San Pantaleone.
• San Lorenzo Marina: coastal hamlet featuring the Church of the Holy Trinity.