Agropoli is a suggestive Cilento tourist center characterized by breathtaking landscapes and panoramas that make it even more mysterious and fascinating. Spending the holidays along the coast can be a good opportunity to discover small unpublished views from which to observe how the sea and the sky merge. Reaching Agropoli and Cilento is no longer difficult. The opening of the new Salerno Pontecagnano airport facilitates connections with the possibility of seeing the region from above, thanks to the tourist flights organized by the various companies. Campania has always been a land of a thousand resources that must be tasted a little at a time without haste. If you decide to go to Campania do not miss a visit to Agropoli, a historical, cultural and archaeological site of considerable interest for young and old. Let’s see, therefore, to discover it together by taking a virtual journey that goes from the village to the coast.

Agropoli: Historic Center

The name Agropoli seems to derive from the term Città Alta with reference to the fact that its historic center rises precisely on a promontory. According to some scholars it is even thought that Agropoli was the ancient acropolis of Paestum due to the possible presence of the temple dedicated to Poseidon. In Roman times, surely, the inhabitants were forced to move from the coast to the promontory in order to defend themselves from the attacks of the Vandals coming from Africa. The Byzantines, in later times, fortified the coastal area, but the inhabitants who settled on the promontory gave life to a thriving inhabited center, today called Borgo. Numerous dominations have succeeded in Agropoli as indeed in many other territories on the sea.

The historical events have thus contributed to giving character to the village through monuments and architecture that still exist today. The castle, for example, stands right on the cliff overlooking the marina. The perimeter of the ancient village is delimited by the presence of medieval walls that culminate with the seventeenth-century entrance portal on which stands the noble coat of arms of the last feudal lords, Delli Monti San Felice. To reach the entrance to the historic center it is necessary to climb the staircase characterized by wide and low steps. On your left you will not fail to admire the enchanting scenery suspended between sky and sea where the primary colors blend to create a picturesque painting.

Once in the village you will find to welcome you the facade of the Church of Santa Maria di Costantinopoli whose history is unique. It is said, in fact, that its construction began after the discovery of a statue of the Madonna in the sea that the infidels had tried in vain to steal. Canvases of great artistic value and statues are kept inside the church that you can admire during your visit to Agropoli. Then, you can see the castle built on a triangular plan with three circular towers. The parade ground of the castle is often the scene of open-air cinema and theatrical performances. The statue of San Francesco in Carrara marble together with the war memorial are among the most prestigious civil works. Continuing the walk through the village of Agropoli do not miss to visit the Church of Saints Peter and Paul of ancient origins that testify to the landing of San Pietro and San Paolo on these coasts.

The coast of Agropoli

The tourist port of Agropoli is a charming and welcoming corner of the Cilento coast and a major tourist destination. During the summer it offers up to 1000 berths. The walk along the seafront will not fail to arouse your amazement. The expanse of the sea extends to the horizon and a Mediterranean vegetation will be the background. Here you will have the opportunity to sit at a table in the bar or restaurant to enjoy traditional Cilento dishes. The Bay of Trentova is an ideal destination both in summer and in winter. To reach it you will have to move a few kilometers from the city center but it is really worth it. The transparent and crystalline sea laps a white and fine beach where the rocks descend gently on the sea.

Folklore and traditions

Campania is famous for representations between the sacred and the profane. The cults are born from beliefs and popular legends that by joining become real rites. In Agropoli there is no lack of engaging moments such as the one related to the cult of San Francesco and the Madonna of Constantinople. On 24 July, in fact, the traditional procession of the Madonna takes place in the sea. The festively adorned boats follow the main boat on which the statue is placed. Fishermen are very devoted and this rite is propitiatory for their activity as well as a tribute for the protection of the Virgin.

The rock of San Francesco overlooking the promontory is the protagonist of the legend according to which it never goes below sea level. It is said, in fact, that the saint passing through Agropoli attempted to preach to the local inhabitants who, in turn, showed themselves disinterested. The saint then retreated to the rock and began to preach attracting a multitude of fish. For this reason the rock was considered sacred and on it stands a cross visible from everywhere.

Staying in Cilento with gusto

A holiday in Cilento offers the opportunity to know these and other curiosities about the places. By staying at AnReale Rooms you can quickly reach the tourist resorts of the area. The property also offers well-furnished and equipped rooms for the preparation of small meals especially in the presence of small children. Finally, do not miss to taste the famous Cilento cuisine made of seafood, land, vegetables, cheeses and cold cuts. The richness of the territory passes through the kitchen offering all the taste you want. Anchovies, in particular, are the most used fish products. Anchovy sauce, stuffed anchovies, marinated anchovies and anchovy pie are some of the most fascinating recipes.

Don’t miss any of this. A holiday dedicated to art, history, culture and cuisine will conquer your senses. A holiday weekend, a weekend or a summer vacation are ideal moments for an escape in Cilento.