Padula and Certosa di San Lorenzo
Padula, an ancient village in the Vallo di Diano, has its roots in Roman times, whose legacy is documented by the route of the Via Pompilia, its necropolis and the archaeological finds of Civita kept in the Archaeological Museum of Western Lucania, housed inside of the Certosa di San Lorenzo. The medieval old town has massive stone portals from Padula, arches and stepped streets until you reach the Mother Church of San Michele Arcangelo, which dominates the town and the valley. Do not miss a visit to the crypt of the Santissima Annunziata which houses the Shrine of the Trecento, the Church of San Clemente built close to the castle, the Convent of Sant'Agostino, the fourteenth-century Convent of San Francesco, the Church of the Madonna del Carmine and the Church of San Nicola de 'Domnis, ancient architectural testimony of the Greek-oriental cult. The Padula Stone Museum deserves to be mentioned, dedicated to the millenary tradition of skilled local sculptors and stonecutters, masters in the processing of white marble. Finally, the Certosa di San Lorenzo, better known as the Certosa di Padula, one of the most important monastic complexes in Europe, a UNESCO site.
Pertosa and Caves of Pertosa Auletta, in the Cilento Geo park led by Dante Alighieri
A few km from Padula, the caves of Pertosa, a complex of karst cavities located in the massif of the Alburni Mountains, in the municipalities of Auletta and Polla which have always been of great importance for paleontology studies: the only caves in Italy where it is possible to navigate a underground river, the Negro, and the sun in Europe to preserve the remains of a pile-dwelling village dating back to the Bronze Age, for many years they have hosted the suggestive show of "Dante's Inferno in the Caves". The guided tours, which include a journey of over one kilometre partially covered by boat, are not difficult and are suitable for people of all ages.
Teggiano, the "museum city"
About 20 kilometers from Polla, perched on a hill, stands the ancient medieval village of Teggiano, a UNESCO heritage site rich in history, culture and traditions. Numerous fragments testify to its noble Roman origins: from the town plan itself to the walled finds on the facades of the buildings, to the immense stone portals that bear sculpted noble coats of arms, to the precious frescoed cloisters. The Norman castle of Macchiaroli which dominates the city can still be visited today by walking along its ancient war walkways in all its splendour. The extraordinary panorama that embraces its towers make it an ideal place for concerts, theatrical events, cultural conferences and internationally renowned events.
Contursi thermal baths
The thermal springs of Contursi, whose healing properties were already known in antiquity, since the time of Aristotle, are a major tourist attraction thanks to the ultra-modern accommodation facilities located in the Bagni di Contursi and Tufaro areas, where the spas of Rosapepe, Cappetta are located. , del Tufaro and Capasso. Further south there are also the Terme di Florenza and Vulpacchio. A unique opportunity to relax surrounded by nature!
Cilento of Natural Parks and protected areas
Ideal places for a regenerated journey into nature, the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park and the Sele-Tanagro Foce Reserve are a unique treasure trove of beauties to be discovered near Polla. The Park is characterized by the presence of an extraordinary wealth of vegetation and pristine coasts, rocky cliffs, ruggedly beautiful hills, paths, waterways, mysterious caves and an extraordinary wealth of fauna. The Reserve includes the naturalistic oasis of Persano and includes numerous thermal springs as well as numerous archaeological sites. And for lovers of outdoor sports, in Felitto, about 40 km from Polla, it is possible to visit the protected area of the "Gole del Calore": from July to September, adventurous canoe excursions will lead visitors to the discovery of the wildest and most uncontaminated nature as well as being a moment of fun, relaxation and pleasant refreshment from the summer heat.
The Cilento of Magna Grecia
About fifty km from Polla, founded in the Piana degli Dei, Poseidonia, city of Neptune, is one of the main archaeological sites in the world and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site: the archaeological area of Paestum preserves the remains of ancient city, where, inserted in a green plain, the Doric times of Hera, Ceres and Poseidon stand out taking your breath away for their grandeur and beauty. Surrounded by a mighty wall and twenty-eight towers placed to defend the four access gates to the city, Roman constructions such as the Forum and the Amphitheater and the living quarters where spas and shops are distinguished follow one another.
The National Archaeological Museum is worth a visit, where you can admire precious pieces such as the metopes of the temple of Hera Argiva, the statue of Zeus and the famous tomb of the Diver. And finally, Paestum in the moonlight should not be missed, illuminated only by the light of the moon, visitors can walk among the temples making their way with the flames of small lanterns, to enjoy the ruins immersing themselves in the way of nature.
The Cilento of towers and fortifications
Overlooking the sea, about seventy kilometers from Polla, stands Agropoli, the Upper Town of the Cilento National Park, Vallo Di Diano and Alburni: clear sea, millenary history and culture make it an enchanting place to stay. The crystal-clear waters of the Bay of Trentova and the natural harbor of the Vallone confirm it as an undisputed destination thanks to the protection of the environment and the efficiency of tourist services.
On July 24th the evocative festival takes place in honor of the Madonna of Constantinople, protector of fishermen. There are numerous monuments bearing witness to its glorious past: from the Angevin Aragonese Castle to the Tower of San Marco and San Francesco, from the Church of the Madonna di Costantinopoli to those of St. Peter and Paul and the Addolorata as well as the columns and numerous finds of greek-roman and medieval times.
Perched on the top of a hill once used as a defense against pirates, is Castellabate, an intertwining of streets and stairways, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The Belvedere of San Costabile will give you a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Salerno, Ischia and Capri while the underlying Santa Maria di Castellabate, an ancient fishing village and lively seaside resort, will be the ideal destination for a relaxing day at the beach.
