Excavations of Velia - Elea

 

Romans called this town Velia, Greeks called it Elea. Its excavations are one of the treasures of National Park of Cilento and Vallo di Diano. The remains of this ancient town are in the territory of Ascea Marina, a very important tourist town, situated between Agropoli and Palinuro. The strategic geographic position of Velia (Elea), in the middle of the ancient commercial routes between Greece and Etruria, gave it strength and wealth. The excavations make this territory more interesting for tourists choosing the sea of Cilento.

Sea and culture represent a perfect match here, as in most part of Italy. Tourists can enjoy the beautiful sea of Agropoli, Santa Maria di Castellabate, Acciaroli, Pioppi,Palinuro or Marina di Camerota and also walk through the picturesque streets of these nice small towns or go to the forum of Velia where important philosophers spent their time, for example Parmenide, Zeno, and Melissus. In the ancient acropolis of Elea (Velia) there is an important Middle Ages fortress today used for theatre performances. One of the most interesting elements of these excavations is the famous 'Porta Rosa', unique example of a Greek arch of IV century, a real architectural jewel of that age.
(>> go to Excavations of Velia photo gallery <<).