Paestum is one of the precious “gems” of Italy placed on the north part of Cilento, not so far from the river Sele, near the Tyrrhenian Sea. The whole ancient city of Paestum covers an area of approximately 120 hectares although only 25 contains the main three temples. The other 95 hectares are private now and the haven’t been excavated yet. A strong wall still defends all the place. The town was founded by the Greek farmers and it was, in 60 b.C., named and titled “Poseidonia” dedicated to the Sea God Neptune (Poseidon). After that it became the most famous city in the Magna Greece, set up of Cuma, Naples, Metaponto, Sibari, Syracuse. Its fame and greatness spread everywhere since when it was conquered by Romans in 272 bC. At that time its decline happened. So this tour gives you the opportunity to visit the splendid ruins of the Paestum Plain where you find and visit the wonderful Doric Temple of Neptune, built in 460 b. C. made with a double file of columns and six in front. The Cereres and the most ancient one, the Hera’s Temple also “Basilica“. There is to say that Hera was considered the goddess of women, marriage, family and childbirth in ancient Greek Religion, sister and wife of Zeus. Daughter of the Titanus Cronus and Rhea, she ruled over mount Olympus as queen of the Gods.It’s like the important Parthenon in Athens, once the market was there among “The Temple“, where the citizens could venerate the Paestum legendary founder Jason Tomb, although it was empty. Then you visit the National Archeological Museum where you can admire some of the most beautiful and interesting archaeological “finds” of Magna Greece, such as the decorations of the sculptures from the Herains ruins of the River Sele.Further some potteries fragments, pots and metal objects, given Hera as a gift. You will see also the painted tombs much spread in IVth C.B.C under the domination of the Lucania inhabitants . At last we will visit the Buffalo Farm where you’ll taste the well-known cow-buffalo mozzarella, the typical product of the place.
Paestum tour from Sorrento or Naples Airport
Paestum tour: overview
Book now and save up to 20%!
Your Paestum tour experience
Book now and save up to 20%!
Book now and save up to 20%!