Paestum​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 26 February 2022
The Paestum Archaeological Park is located in the Province of Salerno, 37 kilometres of the city of Salerno.

Since 1998 it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, the archaeological site of Velia and the Certosa di Padula. Paestum features on my list of Must See Campania sights.
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The Paestum Archaeological Site, located in the Campania region of Italy, is an extraordinary ancient Greek city that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. This well-preserved site boasts some of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

History: Paestum, known as Poseidonia in ancient times, was founded around 600 BC by Greek colonists from Sybaris. The city was dedicated to the Greek god Poseidon, and it thrived as an important center of trade and culture. Over the centuries,

Paestum fell under the control of different civilizations, including the Lucanians and Romans, before eventually declining and being abandoned in the Middle Ages.

Tourist Information: The Paestum Archaeological Site is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its well-preserved ruins and captivating historical atmosphere.

  • Greek Temples: The three main temples at Paestum are the Temple of Hera (Heraion), the Temple of Neptune (Poseidon), and the Basilica, which was likely a temple dedicated to Ceres. The Temple of Hera is the oldest, dating back to the mid-6th century BC. The Temple of Neptune and the Basilica are slightly younger and showcase impressive Doric architecture.
  • Museum: The site also houses a museum, the National Archaeological Museum of Paestum, which displays an extensive collection of artifacts excavated from the site. The museum's highlights include sculptures, vases, and other items from various periods of the city's history.
  • The City Walls: Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient city's defensive walls, offering a sense of the city's layout and fortifications.
  • The Amphitheater: Although smaller than the famous Colosseum in Rome, Paestum's amphitheater is an impressive structure that once hosted gladiatorial games and other spectacles.
  • The Site's Setting: Paestum is located amid beautiful countryside and close to the Tyrrhenian Sea, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for exploring the ancient ruins.

Visiting Information: Paestum is easily accessible from Naples, Salerno, and other major cities in the region. It is advisable to wear comfortable footwear and bring sunscreen and water, as the site can be exposed to the sun during the warmer months.

The National Archaeological Museum of Paestum is an excellent starting point for visitors, offering context and background information before exploring the archaeological site. Guided tours are available for a more in-depth understanding of the historical significance of the site.
​​​​​Opening-times:

​Tue - Sun: 08:30 - 19:30

​Mondays: Closed

​Last admission: 18:50
Prices: 

​​Park only: €5, Museum & Park: €6 (December to February)

​​Park only: €8, Museum & Park: €12 (March to November)

Museum only: €4 (Dec- Feb), €6 (March to November)
Province: Salerno​

Region: Campania

Historical period: Antiquity

Close by: ​Agropoli, Battipaglia, Eboli, Santa Maria di Castellabate

Nearest train station: ​​Paestum (1 km)

Recommended stay: Tenuta Duca Marigliano Boutique Hotel
​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

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