Naples Excursions
Paestum © Paestum
Paestum
The well-preserved Greek temples of Paestum are the best of
their kind in the world, rivalling those of Sicily and Athens. The
city was founded by its Greek colonists in the 7th century BC and
later fell under Roman rule until it was no longer commercially
viable and its inhabitants finally left for greener pastures. The
north-south axis of the city is marked by the paved Via Sacra and
most guided tours begin at its southern end. A guide to the
excavations and Archaeological Museum can be bought at any of the
roadside shops. Notable amongst the remains are three Doric
temples, the best preserved in the world. Built without the use of
cement or mortar these remarkable structures comprise the basilica,
Temple of Poseidon and Temple of Ceres. Heading north along Via
Sacra will take one to the Roman Forum gymnasium and amphitheatre.
Paestum's museum contains a fascinating collection of pottery and
paintings found in the tombs of the area.
Address: Campania region, southern Italy;
Website: www.culturacampania.rai.it;
Transport: Train from Naples, 40km south of Salerno;
Opening time: Museum daily 9am to 7pm (closed first and third Monday each month);
Admission: Museum €4 (€6.50 including the site)
