Voices from the past

Paestum is a city of ancient foundation. It was born with the name of Poseidonia in the 6th century BC, built by the Achaeans, Greek colonists from Sibari who chose it as a maritime commercial centre. It was later occupied by the Lucanians, who changed its name in Paistos, by the Greeks and then by the Lucanians again during the Samnite wars in 330 BC. After this the city's fate was linked to the Roman empire, as it became first a municipality and then a city colony. Towards the 11th century the area was completely abandoned. The most likely reasons for this period of decadence could be Saracen incursions or, according to a different theory, a terrible malaria outbreak which befell the whole surrounding territory. Paestum remained virtually unknown until the first half of the 1700's. It was Charles III of Bourbon who returned the city its fame and started recovery works to bring to the light the remains of classic age temples.

Don't miss...

Although not as well known as Pompeii and Herculaneum, Paestum can be considered one of the most important archaeological destinations in Italy. Entering the ancient city is like engaging in an extraordinary journey through time, for the indescribable charm possessed by the well kept monumental structures. The wall around the ancient town is one of the most important examples of town fortification from the Western Greek period. The group of temples, all close to each other, is also very impressive. The largest one is Poseidon's, built in 450 BC, considered by scholars the greatest example of Doric temple architecture, with its magnificent triangular frontons and the remains of two altars used for the sacrifices to goddess Hera Argiva. The most ancient temple is the so-called Basilica, of the 6th century BC, dedicated to Hera, of which 50 original Doric columns remain intact, the sacred well and the sacrificial altar. Then there is Cerere's temple, dedicated to Athena, with 34 fluted columns. You also ought to visit the National Archaeological Museum, where there are sculptures, bas-reliefs and tools from the excavation. Here you can also see the famous Tuffatore fresco, recovered from a Greek tomb.

Events

Paestum is alive with cultural and artistic events, especially during the summer, as the city is also an esteemed beach resort. Among regular events we should definitely point out the Premio Charlot, the comedy prize, which has reached its fifteenth edition. In August, the temple area becomes the backdrop for the prose, music and dance summer festival. The evening visit to the National Archaeological Museum is another wonderful summer activity.