Town of Ascea/Velia
The town of Ascea, found in the National Park of Cilento and Vallo di Diano in the province of Salerno, is an important tourist destination of the Cilento coast. It can be reached by trains running on the Reggio Calabria line, and by car from the A3 motorway.
The Elea-Velia archaeological area, declared part of UNESCO, extends along an evocative headland.
Elea-Velia was founded in 540 BC by the Phocaeans, and was above all famous for the School of Philosophy (Eleatic school) founded by Parmenides and Zeno of Elea.
Elea-Velia was also the seat of the Eleatic Medical School, from which descended the Salerno Medical School that throughout the centuries immortalized its inspirers.
The entire archaeological area was originally due to be divided into three sections. Two of which recognizable as true military quarters, agora, thermal system, sanctuary and an Acropolis.
The latter is today overlooked by the Castle of Sanseverino and is characterised by ruins of the small theatre that date back to the III century BC.
The jewel of this ancient city is the Porta Rosa (“the Rosa Gate”, named after the wife of the discoverer Mario Napoli), the most majestic Greek civil monument that can be found in the Magna Graecia. It stands as a frontal wall with a central opening at the bottom, just like an arched doorway.
In the summer, amid this breath-taking scenery, one of the most enchanting shows of the province of Salerno takes place, the Velia Theatre, a kermess of tragic and comedic expressions of classical theatre.
Ascea is an important seaside resort in the province of Salerno, that in recent years has been awarded the Blue Flag from Legambiente. The coast of the Marina of Ascea is made up of a beautiful beach full of lidos, that are present all along this part of the Cilento coast and that are equipped to satisfy the needs of the whole family.
In addition to the sea, the surrounding nature makes for pleasant excursions that are ideal for those who enjoy trekking, rafting or horse riding. And there is no better way to end these days spent among nature, archaeology or at the sea, than to sample the most traditional Cilentan dishes in the many restaurants on offer in Ascea.
Furthermore, the hot els and accommodation in Ascea are all located within close proximity to the beaches and the archaeological ruins of Velia.
Every year the hotels, resorts, residences and campsites offer a variety of options suitable for a weekend break in Cilento, or for full family holidays.
Useful information:
Town Hall of Ascea
Pro Loco di Ascea Tel./Fax +39.0974.972230 |