Velia Archaeological Park
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Latest page update: 14 January 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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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. |
Velia Archaeological Park, Campania
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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.
Area Archeologica di Velia
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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
What are the best accommodation options for the Velia Archaeological Park?
- Il Giglio Marino Cilento Residence: Located in Ascea Marina, approximately 3 kilometers from the archaeological site, this residence offers modern apartments equipped with free Wi-Fi and ironing facilities.
- Victoria Resort: Situated in Ascea Marina, about 3 kilometers from the Velia Ruins, this resort features a private beach area, outdoor pool, and lush garden. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and regional specialties at the on-site restaurant.
- Hotel Il Cefalo: Located in Ascea Marina, approximately 3 kilometers from the archaeological site, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the sea, a private beach area, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
- Hotel La Giara: Situated in Ascea Marina, about 3 kilometers from the Velia Ruins, this hotel provides air-conditioned rooms, a private beach area, and a restaurant specializing in Mediterranean dishes.
- Hotel Velia: Located in Ascea, approximately 2 kilometers from the archaeological site, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations with a garden, free private parking, and free Wi-Fi.
What's the best way to reach the Velia Archaeological Park?
The Velia Archaeological Park, located in the town of Ascea in the Campania region, is easily accessible by various forms of transportation. The nearest airport is Naples International Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino), about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car. From the airport, you can drive along the A3 highway, heading south towards Salerno and then following signs to Ascea.
Alternatively, you can take a train from Naples Centrale to the Ascea railway station, which is about 15 minutes by car or bus from the archaeological park. Local buses also connect Ascea to neighboring towns, and there are regular bus services from the train station to the park. The park is situated near the coast, so it is also accessible by car along the SS267 coastal road.
Alternatively, you can take a train from Naples Centrale to the Ascea railway station, which is about 15 minutes by car or bus from the archaeological park. Local buses also connect Ascea to neighboring towns, and there are regular bus services from the train station to the park. The park is situated near the coast, so it is also accessible by car along the SS267 coastal road.
