Velia Archaeological Park
Latest page update: 14 January 2025
The Velia Archaeological Park is situated within the Cilento Coast region of Campania in Salerno Province. It officially forms part of the Comune of Ascea.
Since 1998 it's been inscribed by UNESCO in their list of World Heritage Sites, along with the nearby sites of Paestum, the Certosa di San Lorenzo and Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park. Velia is on the former Phocaean site once known as Elea. The most prominent landmark of the archaeological site is the Torre di Velia, a Norman watchtower. The site is most easily reached by car although there is a train station a short distance away. |
Related links
The Velia Archaeological Park, located in the Cilento region of southern Italy’s Campania, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient Greek heritage. Velia, originally known as Elea, was founded by Greek settlers in the 6th century BCE and became a major hub of philosophy, notably the Eleatic School, founded by Parmenides.
Visitors can explore significant ruins, including the Porta Rosa, an ancient Greek archway, and the Acropolis, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The Roman baths, theater, and residential quarters showcase the blend of Greek and Roman influences.
Velia is accessible by car via the A3 motorway, with nearby train stations in Ascea and Vallo della Lucania. The site is situated within the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, offering a combination of cultural and natural beauty. Nearby attractions include Paestum, famous for its Greek temples, and the coastal town of Palinuro, known for its pristine beaches.
Visitors can explore significant ruins, including the Porta Rosa, an ancient Greek archway, and the Acropolis, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The Roman baths, theater, and residential quarters showcase the blend of Greek and Roman influences.
Velia is accessible by car via the A3 motorway, with nearby train stations in Ascea and Vallo della Lucania. The site is situated within the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, offering a combination of cultural and natural beauty. Nearby attractions include Paestum, famous for its Greek temples, and the coastal town of Palinuro, known for its pristine beaches.
Comune: Ascea
Province: Salerno Region: Campania Nearest train station: Ascea (2.6 km) Close by: Pisciotta, Acciaroli, Palinuro, Marina di Camerota Recommended stay: Grand Hotel San Pietro (24 km) |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archaeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula
Year: 1998
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archaeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula
Year: 1998