Gerace is one of the most evocative inhabited historic centres in Calabria, standing on a sandstone plateau which has helped  to limit the construction of modern buildings which would certainly  have spoilt its appeal. In the lower town it is still possible to visit the potters’ workshops excavated from the old Greek system. The 12th century Norman castle, of which only one tower remains, is situated in the upper part of the town. Of particular interest is the three-nave cathedral, each with 13 columns, possibly originating from the temples at Locri. Its exact date of origin is uncertain due to the continual restoration it has undergone throughout the centuries, although it is known that the temple was consecrated  in 1045 AD. Another church which merits attention is the church of St. Francesco (1252) with its inlaid marble and the sarcophagus of Nicola Ruffo as well as the small Byzantine churches of St. Giovannello, Annunziatella, St. Maria del Maestro and St. Maria del Monserrato