Cilento National Park:
Cilento National Park is a land where myth, history, sky and earth intertwine. Here, where the earth meets the sea and the air breathes life into the landscape, lies a place of unparalleled beauty and tranquility: Paestum. Because of its remarkable blend of natural beauty, archaeological wonders, and historical significance, Paestum has been rightfully recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park is a protected area of 36 hectares in the province of Salerno. The region is characterized by its abundance of natural wonders, including sun-kissed hills draped in verdant meadows, crystal-clear streams that meander through the landscape, and a coastline kissed by pristine beaches. The region also boasts a rich biodiversity, with rare species of flora and fauna thriving amidst the Mediterranean scrub, which perfumes the air with its unique fragrances.
The Park’s territory is an enchanting corner of Campania, offering the epitome of Mediterranean beauty. The Cilento coast is a tapestry of hidden bays, secluded coves, and crystal-clear waters. The coastline boasts a mesmerizing array of Flysch shales and sandstones, especially near Punta Licosa and Terre Rosse, which transform their hues with the changing of day and night.
The Cilento’s interior unveils a remarkable interplay between karst formations, sculpting natural caves and hollows that once served as shelters for prehistoric humans. Water has carved out a stunning landscape of gorges, tunnels, and furrows, some of which remain hidden from view. The Alburni Mountains are home to three spectacular caves: Castelcivita Cave, Pertosa Cave, and Auso Cave. Castelcivita Cave is the largest, stretching for over 5 kilometers. For those who cherish the embrace of nature and seek activities in harmony with its rhythm, Cilento beckons as an idyllic destination.
Cilento’s vacations offer the opportunity to visit archaeological sites scattered throughout the park territory, beckoning visitors to step back in time. The Paestum area is a lush and fertile plain. Drawn by the sea’s allure, the Sele River’s nurturing currents, and the land’s unparalleled splendor, the Greeks established Paestum as their colony. They further embellished Paestum’s allure with the construction of the iconic temples of Hera, Hera II, and Athena.