Campania, Queen of archaeology / 1
The most interesting archaeological sites to see in the spring, between the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno.
Land of culinary excellence and Michelin-starred chefs, of marvellous beaches and villages, Campania boasts some of Italy's most famed and suggestive archaeological sites. We have decided to devote two appointments to the 10 sites that absolutely cannot be missed, especially with the arrival of the spring, the period of the year most suited to this kind of tour, as the mild climate is not yet too hot for the walking these visits require. We begin with the localities situated between the Amalfi Coast and the province of Salerno. So bring your sunscreen, a hat for protection from the sun, a water bottle, and comfortable shoes. All that's left to do is to get going.
Paestum: Since 1998, the Paestum Archaeological Park has been, like many other Campanian sites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its 5 Km of walls embrace a vast area that holds centuries of history, from the Greek foundation of Poseidonia to the Roman Paestum, with temples, the city, and the National Archaeological Museum of Paestum. An iconic element: The Tomb of the Diver.
Elea: The Greek city, later to become Velia in the Roman Age, was rich and thriving, thanks to its strategic position at the centre of the trading routes between Greece and Etruria. Its streets were trodden by the philosophers of the Eleatic School: Parmenides, Zeno and Melissus. An iconic element: the Porta Rosa, the most ancient example of a rounded arch in Italy.
Nuceria Alfaterna: Its foundation dates back to the same time as Pompeii, but Nuceria was perhaps Campania's most thriving city in antiquity. Inhabited by Oscans, Etruscans, Samnites, and lastly by Romans, its fame was also linked to its rivalry with Pompeii, which led to a gigantic brawl between opposing "supporters" during a gladiator show. An iconic element: the great Amphitheatre beneath the city.
Positano: In the heart of the famed town is a treasure chest holding centuries upon centuries of history. The Church of Santa Maria dell'Assunta, with its unmistakable majolica dome, houses beneath its perimeter the remains of a luxurious, Roman-Age leisure villa, buried beneath the rain of ash and lapilli that also destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 AD. Today, we can see a large environment with a mosaic floor and a finely frescoed triclinium decorated with cupids in relief. Between the Roman villa and the church is a Medieval crypt. An iconic element: cupids.
Contact Russo Agency for your vacation in pursuit of culture and history, or to organize extremely interesting activities for your incentive travel.