Paestum
An ancient Greek colony on the plain of the Gulf of Salerno. Its three Doric temples are as well preserved as those in Athens. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Paestum was founded by Greek colonists at the end of the 7th century BC under the name Poseidonia. It is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek sites on mainland Italy and was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1998. Within the site stand three Doric temples: the Temple of Hera, the so-called “Temple of Neptune” (in fact a second Temple of Hera), and the Temple of Athena. Their colonnades remain intact and impressive, surrounded by Roman-era forums and streets. The nearby Archaeological Museum houses the famous “Tomb of the Diver” frescoes. Entry costs about €15, including the museum. From Naples, take the train for about 1.5 hours to Paestum station, or travel from Salerno or the Amalfi Coast by bus.
Opening hours
8:30 am–7:30 pm (museum closed Monday mornings)