Campania, edged by the Mediterranean Sea, is made up of five provinces – Salerno, Caserta, Benevento, Avellino, and Naples. An area of astonishingly beautiful landscapes, not just for its nature, complete with dramatic coastline and marvelous mountains, but for its impressive history too! It offers everything you can even imagine! Ancient archaeological sites from the Ancient Greeks to the Romans; from crumbling ruins to masterpieces of the classical world, tell the story of this region.
To discover the natural wonders, you can visit a lot of parks and natural areas including Amalfi coast and Mount Vesuvius .
Campania is also the place for great relax on beautiful sandy beaches, soaking in the sun, with many bars and restaurants. It’s also a cradle of Italian food, being the home of pizza, spaghetti, limoncello, cannelloni, and mozzarella.
Other amazing places include Naples, Caserta, Avellino, Pozzuoli, Cilento Benevento, Pompeii, Sorrento and Paestum.
Campania has UNESCO 6 sites
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18th-Century Royal Palace at Caserta with the Park, the Aqueduct of Vanvitelli, and the San Leucio Complex
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Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana)
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Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata
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Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula
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Historic Centre of Naples
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Santa Sofia, Benevento (Longobard Site) Province of Benevento
Campania
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Naples
Its port is one of the most important in the Mediterranean. Due to the extensive history of this region, Naples is full of historical buildings, squares and churches plus a host of modern amenities and fantastic nightlife opportunities. In 1995, the historic city centre was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And .....let’s learn to make pizza in Naples!
Piazza del Plebiscito
The symbol of Naples, Piazza del Plebiscito, located in the heart of the city, surrounded by the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola, the Royal Palace, the Prefecture’s Palace and the Salerno Palace is one of the largest squares in Italy.
Royal Palace
Royal Palace, begun in 1600 and restored from 1837-41. It is one of four palaces in the area that were used as residences by the Bourbon kings. On the long facade are eight marble statues of the various kings who ruled Naples. Inside, you can see the grand staircase of white marble, built in 1651, a theater, and more than two dozen rooms in its state apartment, with furniture, tapestries, porcelains, and sculptures.
Theater San Carlo
One of the largest theaters in Europe and one of Italy's premier opera houses, the Real Teatro di San Carlo was built by King Charles of Bourbon, adjoining his Royal Palace.
Castel Nuovo
Built in 1279, the five-towered Castel Nuovo, was the residence of kings and viceroys of Naples. Its history reflects the various rulers—French, Aragonese, Spanish, and Austrian, each adding and renovating to suit the times. Take a tour of the castle and admire the beautiful towers, stand inside the central courtyard, admire the painted ceiling of the Baron’s Hall and climb the castle ramparts for stunning views of Naples and the harbour.
Castel dell’Ovo
As you enter the port at Naples you will undoubtedly see this stunning sea bound castle.
The oldest remaining fortification in Naples, the Castel dell’Ovo was constructed in the early 6th century BC and some form of defensive structure has stood ever since. The castle is open to the public and it is a fantastic structure to explore – Walk through the passageways and arches and look out into the Mediterranean sea.
Sansevero Chapel
A chapel contains amazing works of Rococo art by some of the leading Italian artists of the 18th century.
District of Santa Lucia
A picturesque huddle of narrow, stepped lanes where you can see very real neighborhood shops and bakeries, artisans' workshops, little cafés, laundry hanging overhead, and conversations carried on between balconies. Be part of traditional Neapolitan life!
Avellino
Avellino is a quiet city full of interesting features immersed in the vast green plain of the Irpinia territory. Mountains, vast plains, shimmering lakes and rivers make this province the perfect destination for those who love nature and who desire a vacation marked by thorough relaxation, among mountains and springs, fresh air and great food, all year-round.
Montevergine Sanctuary
Symbol of the city of Avellino, can be reached by walking up, that is worth the effort for the rewarding views or take the funicular up to the hill. The Benedictine abbey has been a true sanctuary, giving shelter to Jews in hiding during WWII, and where many locals fled for safety during the Allied bombings of their city. It is a beautiful spot with breathtaking views and an intriguing history, and well worth the trip.
Saint Mary Assunta Cathedral
House of numerous religious paintings and statues, like the painting of Lady Assunta, which is carried in the town procession in August.
Clock Tower
The symbol of the city, the tower is 36 meters high and it was damaged by the disastrous earthquakes of 1668, 1742, and the latest in 1980, which caused disasters and irreparable damage to the city’s architecture.
Bourbon Prison
Houses the Pinacoteca Provinciale art museum. The city of Avellino has also its Municipal Theater, the Carlo Gesualdo.
Benevento
Benevento, just under two hours' drive from Naples, is some way off the beaten track. It is surrounded by the Campanian Apennines, between the rivers Sabato and Calore. Benevento is a town rich in artistic and historical attractions. The historic center of Benevento, which is packed full of beauty of every kind, the majestic Benevento Cathedral, built around the 7th century, and unfortunately bombed in 1943. The Arch of Trajan, perfectly conserved, is the most beautiful triumphal Roman arch, erected in 113 AD to celebrate the opening of the Via Appaia, which leads from Benevento to Brindisi. It’s named after Trajan, the emperor who funded the project. Next, the Roman Theater, inaugurated by Emperor Hadrian (126 DC) and completed by Caracalla (200 AD), made for 10,000 spectators, with 25 incredible arches, a marble cavea and some stunning stucco elements, now still well preserved and used for various theatrical performances.
Church of Saint Sofia
The Church of S. Sofia with its bell tower, is one of the most original from medieval Europe. It retains many elements of its original Lombard architecture.
It is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011, as part of a group of seven historic buildings inscribed as Longobards in Italy and their Places of Power (568–774 A.D.) The seven components are located in Campania, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Lombardy, Puglia, and Umbria. In Lombardy, there are 2 components, San Salvatore-Santa Giulia Monastary and Capitolium archaeological area in Brescia and Castelseprio Archaeological Park in Varese.
Caserta
Caserta is one of the most particular beauties of Campania, a stone's throw from Naples, it is one of the best legacies left by the Bourbon dynasty on the Campania soil. Known throughout the world and with several UNESCO heritage sites, Caserta is one of the places you can't help but visit if you are in Naples.
Royal Palace of Caserta
A masterpiece of architecture by the genius of Luigi and Carlo Vanvitelli, built in baroque and neoclassical style. Designed on the design of the Palace of Versailles and built far from the capital for security reasons, the work was completed in 1845 and consists of more than 1200 rooms and almost 1800 windows that make this complex the last great work of the Italian baroque, so much so that in 1997 it was included in the UNESCO Heritage List.
The Aqueduct of Vanvitelli
An aqueduct, built on the orders of Charles of Bourbon to bring water from the Taburno springs, up to San Leucio and the Royal Palace of Caserta complex.
The aqueduct is made of three rows of arches, 55.8 metres (183 ft) high at its highest point and about 500 meters long. A stunning work of engineering , it has been declare a UNESCO heritage site since 1997.
The San Leucio complex
San Leucio, today, is a village of Caserta. King Ferdinando IV of Bourbon converted his hunting lodge into a silk mill which developed an idealistic community of workers, in which people worked and lived in the Village, and were guaranteed homes, schools, medical care and all services. The huge building complex, became the symbol of a model society based on the value of work and equality. Since 1997 the San Leucio complex is part of the UNESCO Heritage.
By Gianfranco Vitolo-flickr
Santa Maria Capua Vetere
The Campania amphitheater and the gladiator museum of Santa Maria Capua Vetere, located on the outskirts of the province of Caserta, Santa Maria Capua Vetere, is one of the most important historical finds in Roman history in Campania, but probably also the least known. Second only to the Colosseum in size, it seems to be even earlier than the same one so as to be probably the first amphitheater built by the Romans. Famous for the school of gladiators, it is here that Spartacus rebelled against the yoke of slavery and started the slave revolt.
Herculaneum
Smaller and wealthier than Pompeii, Herculaneum was one of the two famous towns devastated by the Mount Vesuvius eruption in 79 AD. Herculaneum was also buried under layers of ash leaving amazingly intact buildings. You can discover the basilica, houses decorated with mosaics, as well as villas and public baths; a visit to Herculaneum gives you a glimpse into Roman life. Herculaneum is most famous for being the first source of Roman skeletal remains for study. The ancient towns of Herculaneum, Pompeii together with the Villas in Oplontis, (Torre Annunziata) were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1997.
Isle of Capri
Capri has long been a favourite destination of honeymooners, but you do not have to be in love to appreciate the charms of Capri. Check out the Blue Grotto, a renowned lagoon where the sunlight reflects off the limestone floor and walls, casting a brilliant shade of turquoise blue throughout the cave. Take the chair lift to Mount Solaro the highest point on Capri, for a panoramic view of the island. Marvel at the stunning view of Via Krupp, which connects the historic center of the island with the resort area of Marina Piccola.
Mount Vesuvius National Park
There are two volcanoes that can be found within the park’s borders – extinct vulcano Mount Somma as well as the still currently active Mount Vesuvius. The Vesuvius National Park was formed to defend and protect the volcano. The current Vesuvio Great Cone stands 1,281 meters above sea level; but this height changes regularly depending on activity in the area. Even though it’s active, it’s still a popular place to visit. Tourists from across the globe to climb the path each year to peer into its depths. You can hike its many trails in the Park and enjoy views of the Gulf of Naples.
Pompeii
When Vesuvius erupted in AD 79, it engulfed the two flourishing Roman towns of Pompei and Herculaneum, as well as the many wealthy villas in the area of Torre Annunziata. These have been progressively excavated and made accessible to the public since the mid-18th century.
Venture through the archaeological sites and find out how this ancient Roman civilization was buried following the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius for nearly 2,000 years.
The ancient towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum together with the Villas in Oplontis, Torre Annunziata were inscribed onto UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997.
By Russ Quinlan-flickr
By Pom'-flickr
Salerno
Salerno is the capital of the province of the same name, and lies in the Gulf of Salerno on the Tyrrhenian Sea. Consider as the gateway to the renowned Amalfi Coast, it has its own myriad of beautiful architecture, gorgeous gardens and sun-kissed promenade too. Some of the attractions include the 11th century Cathedral , Romanesque style and features a beautiful front façade complete with delicate arches and a triangular pediment. Next, the beautiful landscaped garden Villa Comunale di Salerno with interesting sculptures and monuments. The fortress Forte La Carnale played a major part in the defence of the city for many years. Pearching on the hilltop, it provides stunning views of the city, and the Amalfi coast. The Arechi Castle dominates the Gulf of Salerno and was constructed in Medieval times, towering above the city at a height of 300m on a large hill. Take a stroll along the promenade Trieste Lungomare, lined with series of Squares, complete with statues and fountains, with seating covered by palm trees, that provide welcome shade during a romantic afternoon stroll.
Sorrento
Sorrento is a rustic resort town set high above the Mediterranean, looking out over the Gulf of Naples,
Mount Vesuvius and the Isle of Capri. This seaside town was a popular summer vacation spot for Ancient Greeks and Romans. Today, its mild climate, attractive streets, and friendly locals keep Sorrento popular.
Piazza Tasso, the main square of the city, is always full of hustle and bustle; Corso Italia is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops; and Piazza Vittoria is home to the ruins of the Temple of Venus and the Romanesque duomo dating back to the 1400s. With a variety of lodgings tucked down charming streets, Sorrento is a good base for exploring Campania and the Amalfi Coast.
Famous for its cultivation of citrus, olive trees and vines. Limoncello liquer is originated from here.
Torre Annunziata
Oplontis is the main archeological site in Torre Annunziata, which like Pompeii and Herculaneum was destroyed by volcanic ash and is located near the modern day city of Naples. Excavations have revealed houses and villas of the ancient city, including the famous Villa Poppeae, which belonged to Emperor Nero’s wife. The Villas in Oplontis, (Torre Annunziata) Pompeii and Herculaneum, were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1997.
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum, Velia and the Certosa di Padula
Magnificent Cilento, Vallo di Diano National Park, Velia, Paestum and the Certosa of Padula (Province of Solerno) stands out with its archaeological sites , together, they have made up a UNESCO World Heritage List since 1998.
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park
The majestic Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park (the second-largest in Italy) extends from the Tyrhennian coast to the feet of the Campania-Lucania Apennines, and preserves numerous traces of the presence of man since ancient times. A cultural landscape of outstanding value that has evidence of human occupation dating from 250,000 years ago. It has been successively occupied over time by farmers during the Neolithic period, by Bronze and Iron Age societies, Etruscans, Greek colonists, Lucanians, and was eventually incorporated into the Roman territory in the 3rd century B.C.
Velia
Another site of great importance is the archaeological area of Velia, which preserves the monumental remains of the colony of Elea, founded by the Phocaeans in the second half of the 6th century.
By mirco buscherini -flickr.com, Public Domain
By mirco buscherini -flickr.com, Public Domain
Paestum
One of the most important monumental complexes originally called Poseidonia, in honor of Poseidon, but it is also a place for devotion to Hera and Athena. It has innumerable archaeological finds and decorative artifacts – many of which can be viewed inside the National Archaeological Museum.
The Temple of Hera, 550 B.C Paestum
By Bruno Rijsman-flickr
By Bruno Rijsman-flickr
Padula
The Certosa di San Lorenzo at Padula in the Vallo di Diano is one of the most impressive monastic structures in the world. Its construction began in 1306, but its present Baroque form is the result of the transformations carried out in the 17th and 18th centuries. Today it is home to the Archaeological Museum of Lucanian Antiquities.
Local souvenirs to bring home
By Go Travelling, Public Domain
By DEZALB - Pixabay
