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Holidays in Paestum: Villas with pool, holiday homes and apartments

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Paestum: Ancient Splendor on the Cilento Coast



Paestum is one of Italy’s most hauntingly beautiful archaeological sites – a place where the grandeur of ancient Greece meets the rugged charm of the Cilento Coast. Located in the Campania region, just south of the Amalfi Coast, it offers a more relaxed, sun-drenched alternative to its crowded neighbours.

History of Poseidonia



Founded around 600 BC by Greek colonists from Sybaris, the city was originally called Poseidonia (in honour of Poseidon). It flourished as an important centre of trade and culture before being conquered by the Lucanians and finally the Romans in 273 BC, who renamed it Paestum. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the area became swampy and malaria-ridden, prompting the inhabitants to abandon the city. This isolation actually preserved the temples for centuries, hidden by dense forests until they were "rediscovered" in the 18th century.

A Mediterranean Escape



Imagine waking up in one of the many luxury villas scattered around the countryside, with the scent of wild herbs and salty sea air wafting in through your window. Paestum is defined by its wide, golden sandy beaches and its iconic skyline dominated by three of the best-preserved Doric temples in the world.

Whether you're relaxing by your private pool in a secluded holiday property or exploring the travertine ruins, the atmosphere is pure holiday bliss. It's a place where the pace of life slows down and "dolce vita" is lived among ancient stones and modern conveniences.

Tastes of the Country: Typical Foods



Paestum is the undisputed capital of Mozzarella di Bufala Campana. The surrounding Piana del Sele is home to elite buffalo dairies (caseifici).

Buffalo Mozzarella: Fresh, creamy and best eaten the day it is made.

Carciofo di Paestum (IGP): A round, tender artichoke, often grilled or preserved in oil.

Cilento figs: Sun-dried white figs, often stuffed with almonds and dipped in chocolate.

Alici di Menaica: Traditional salt-cured anchovies from the nearby coast.

Activities and nature



Archaeological Park: Stroll between the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Neptune and the Temple of Athena. Don't miss the Tomb of the Diver at the National Archaeological Museum.

Beach life: The coastline features pine-clad cliffs and wide beaches, perfect for a long summer day.

Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park: A UNESCO site offering hiking, river walks in the Gole del Calore and hidden sea caves.

Dairy tours: Visit a local farm to see the buffalo and taste warm mozzarella straight from the production line.

Festivals and events



Mozzarella Festival (Sagra della Mozzarella): Usually held during the summer months in nearby towns, celebrating all things buffalo milk.

Heraia: A series of historical reenactments and theatrical performances held at the archaeological site on summer evenings.

Balloon Festival (Festival delle Mongolfiere): Typically held in early autumn, with dozens of hot air balloons flying over the ancient temples - a photographer's dream.
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