Cilento coast: between history and nature

Leaving Salerno means discovering beautiful places. We have already seen some of them in the article dedicated to the Amalfi Coast, where we ideally went up to Positano. This time we chose to sail south, along the Cilento coast. The beauties here are also abundant, both in terms of landscape and in terms of history and art. Among the first places in order of appearance not to be missed, we have chosen four: Paestum, Agropoli, Acciaroli and Palinuro.

Paestum

The first must-see place is Paestum. A literal plunge into the past, this place belonging to the municipality of Carpaccio was already known in the 6th century BC. An important trading centre in Magna Graecia, it was called Poseidonia, in honour of Poseidon. It came under the rule of the Lucanians and then the Romans, with whom it assumed its present name. A Unesco World Heritage Site since 1998, together with the Cilento National Park, it keeps some of the best-preserved buildings of the classical age in the territory, with the temples of Athena, Hera and Neptune flanked by the Paleo-Christian Basilica, the Roman amphitheatre and the remains of the town centre. Surrounding the approximately 120 hectares on which the ancient city extends are the city walls, among the best-preserved defensive systems of Magna Graecia, while a visit to the National Museum is the best way to retrace the history of the site from prehistoric to Roman times.

Agropoli

Poco distante da Paestum troviamo Agropoli. Not far from Paestum we find Agropoli. It is the optimal base both for excursions by land to archaeological sites and for reaching places of great beauty along the coast to Punta Tresino or San Marco di Castellabate, a small fishing village of medieval origin. Staying in the village, in addition to taking advantage of what the port offers, i.e. water, electricity and fuel, you cannot help but dedicate a few hours to visiting the town. Situated in a mountain area overlooking the sea that gave it its name (from acropolis, literally “high city”), the ancient centre of the city can be reached by walking up the Salita degli Scaloni and passing through a 17th-century gateway, the Porta Monumentale. It is from here that we can start our tour of the ancient village among stone steps, narrow alleys and beautiful views of the sea. You can visit the majestic Angioino Aragonese Castle, once a fortress and military garrison, now a place for cultural events and open-air shows.

All along the coast we will find the ancient watchtowers, from that of San Marco, circular in shape, located between the Castle and the Tower of Paestum, to that of San Francesco, overlooking the sea and next to the remains of the convent of the same name. Those in search of social life will find it along the Lungomare San Marco, one of the liveliest areas in the city, from which you can reach the beach of the same name. Those who prefer a quiet place can reach the small Bay of San Francesco, which is little frequented and has a rocky beach ideal for those seeking relaxation.

Acciaroli

Known as the Pearl of Cilento for its crystal-clear sea and beautiful beaches, Acciaroli is not only another useful port to find water and supplies, but also an extraordinary tourist destination. In addition to restaurants and bars with sea views, this hamlet in the municipality of Pollica also offers a charming medieval village, beautiful beaches and magnificent views. Among the shorelines, the easiest choice is the Spiaggia Grande: it is located at the foot of the town centre and includes both equipped and free areas. Those who prefer a less crowded solution will have to give up the fine sand in favour of the pebbles of less frequented beaches. Like those of the Torre Caléo beach, for example, with its crystal-clear waters and accessible only through a small path. Those who wish to immerse themselves in history can visit the Church of the Annunziata, probably dating back to the 12th century and among the oldest buildings in the city, and, not far away, the remains of the Norman Tower. Built in the same period by Frederick II, it is part of the sighting and defence complex erected along the coast to ward off pirate raids.

Palinuro

The last stop (at least for the moment) that would be a real shame to miss is Palinuro. Known for its beaches but also for its beautiful caves, this small village located north of Capo Palinuro belongs to the town of Centola and also houses its port. Those who want to enjoy a day of swimming and sunbathing can reach one of its beautiful beaches. There really is something for everyone. From the Buon Dormire beach, well-known but quiet because it can only be reached by sea, to the Marinella beach, surrounded by greenery and with a sandy seabed suitable for snorkelling, to the famous Spiaggia dell’Arco Naturale, near the mouth of the Mingardo river outside the centre. Do not miss the caves, loved by divers: the most sought-after are the Grotta Azzurra, the Grotta del Sangue and the Grotta dei Monaci. Finally, trekking enthusiasts cannot miss the excursions to the promontory of Capo Palinuro, with walks on paths immersed in green vegetation and surrounded by the blue sea.