A breathtaking fusion of nature, history, and ancient civilizations
Located in the southernmost part of the Campania region, the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Spanning over 80 municipalities, it was Italy’s very first UNESCO Global Geopark and a designated Biosphere Reserve—a vast and varied landscape where mountains meet sea, and history lives in every stone.
More than just a natural paradise, this park was once a major crossroads for trade and cultural exchange between the peoples of Magna Graecia, the Lucanians, and the Etruscans. It’s here that ancient civilizations left behind some of the most extraordinary archaeological treasures in the region.
Must-see highlights include:
- Paestum, with its awe-inspiring Greek temples—among the best-preserved in the world
- Velia (ancient Elea), founded by the Phocians in the 6th century BC and home of the great philosophers Parmenides and Zeno
- The Certosa di San Lorenzo in Padula, one of Europe’s largest and most beautiful monastic complexes, a Baroque masterpiece with cloisters, gardens, and endless architectural wonders
The park’s landscape is just as rich as its history: lush forests, towering limestone peaks, crystal-clear streams, hidden caves, and a stretch of pristine coastline. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape immersed in centuries of tradition and beauty.
And if you’re looking to indulge your taste buds, don’t miss out on PDO-certified buffalo mozzarella, one of the region’s culinary treasures—not yet recognized by UNESCO, but definitely worthy of a place on your Campania itinerary!
