Paestum and Castelcivita (Full Day)

The Grottoes of Castelcivita, are a very fascinating stereological complex, located on the slopes of Mount Alburni that reaches a height of 487 meters, in the province of Salerno, not far from the river Calore, that are considered to have unexpressed potentials. The entrance of the grottoes, which are lit and can be visited for about 1,700 meters, open a large cave followed by tunnels, halls, narrow passages and wells, which run after each other. It is a surreal and fantastic landscape, rich in colors, with very strange and varied shapes that encourage imagination. Suggestiveness and a halo of mystery have always surrounded these grottoes. Take a guided tour through these mesmerizing underground passages, as well as the possibility of a charming tour around the medieval quarter of Castelcivita, rich in stepped streets, arches, portals and alley ways; together with the architectural and artistic evidence. Genuine traditional local food, and all kinds of handicraft, can also be found.

Unlike Pompeii and even Herculaneum, Paestum can often be deserted, the gleaming white marble ancient Greek temples that date back to the 6th century BC, set against the dark brown hills and deep blue sea, provide a uniquely Greek experience in Italy. Today, the preserved temple of Hera II (once believed to be the Temple of Poseidon) is one of three temples. (See also the temple of Hera I) Part of the interior is a colonnade with two rows of columns, including the superimposed upper level which supported the roof, therefore illustrates the standard Doric form: 6 columns on the end and 14 columns on the side. We recommend hiring a guide for the sites and visit an archaeological museum in the vicinity, with a rich collection of Greek art and antiquities.