S. Maria di Castellabate a Journey through history and tradition of a fishing village

As one approaches Zona lago and Trezino in the Cilento National Park and Valley of Diano the natural beauty of the area is immediately evident. The small area is interesting due to the ancient sandstone blocks that were perhaps the base of Temples from the Byzantine period, as the name itself given to the plain Trisino or Teresino . The village of Santa Maria di Castellabate consists of typical fishermens dwellings, small streets and arches of the historic centre which overlook the small harbour of le Gatte. The Blue flag is awarded every year to Santa Maria thanks to a clear and crystal sea and is therefore a much appreciated tourist destination.

Being so well located and easily reached from the main regions of Naples and Salerno the area has developed in recent years to become known as a qualified tourist centre where tradition , culture, gastronomy and above all its natural beauty are appreciated. Castellabate is a historic centre 278 meters above sea level which due to its architectural characteristics has been declared UNESCO World heritage site and been cited in the list of most beautiful villages of Italy.

The village extends around the medieval settlement where the castle stands, first named S. Angelo and then in 1173 Castrum Abbatis Castle of the Abbott in,memory of its founder Abbott Costabile Gentilcore who laid its first stone in 1173. With its four round towers in strategic positions the fortress gave a strong impression in order to insight fear in any possible enemies, in particular the Saracen pirates. In 1124 work on the castle was concluded by the successor, the Benedictine Beato Simeone. Within the castle walls there were houses, shops,ovens and a vast water well. Later the building was embellished with a courtyard,stairway arches and columns transforming it into a noble residence and thus partially abandoning its use as a defensive structure. As one walks through the medieval village through its streets, arches, steps and narrow alleys which join the grey stone houses one comes to a clearing from which one can see the extense of sea below. From the castle one reaches the Basilica Santa Maria di Giulia. Consacrated in 1138 by the Abbott Simeone, of particular interest are the 15th century facade and campanile with double arches as well as a 16th century painting . In the Basilica a place of worship dedicated to Costabile one can see the golden copper bust of Saint Costabile created by Aniello Treglia in 1662 which contains his relics.

On leaving the castle and continuing on the road 267 which offers views across the coast of Santa Maria and beyond the Amalfi coast, one passes a vast pine wooded area before arriving at San Marco. Here one can find the small port with fishing boats and one can also distinguish the remains of an ancient roman pier. Continuing from the port of San Marco along what was once the mule track which passes the peninsula south east to Ogliastro Marina one arrives at Punta Licosa, a true paradise for those seeking tranquility and nature. Punta Licosa is a vast forested area with mediterranean vegetation and with a very small village is situated at the foot of the Mount Licosa. Beyond the pine forest there are many small rocky inlets where the surrounding sea forms part of the marine reserve of Castellabate. A boat trip to the island of Licosa is the highlight of a stay in one of the most beautiful parts of the Cilento. Two concerts which take place on boats are dedicated to the mythical mermaid from which the area has taken its name.

Not only are the beaches, the sea, well preserved nature and mild climate reason enough to choose the area of Castellabate as a holiday destination but also the important archealogical sites of Paestum (19km), Velia- Elea (38km). The nearest train station is situated in Agropoli (12km). Other nearby seaside areas are:Acciaroli (12km) CasalVelino( 37km) Ascea Marina (38km)Pisciotta (51km) Castellabate is situated 61km from Palinuro and 78km from Marian di Camerota Two important summer festivals worth mentioning are the local craft festival and the book festival in Castellabate near the castle.