CAMPANIA A SEA OF FORESTS - assessorato...

Nature has a great simplicity

and therefore a great beauty

Richard Feynmann

CAMPANIAA SEAOF FORESTS

Few people know that more than a third of Campania’s land is covered with woods. Given its

marvelous coastline, our region has always stood out as a predominantly marine land. On the

contrary, after Sardinia and Calabria, it’s the Southern region with the largest forest area and with

the highest percentage (30%) of land covered with national and regional parks and reserves. A

large portion of wooded land, equal to 5.500 hectares divided up into 10 large forests, is directly

administered by Campania Regional Government. It’s a very differentiated land due to its geographical

environments, its flora and fauna, but it has a particularity common to all of its areas: a beauty

beyond compare. These wonders have always been managed according to strict criteria of protection

and preservation. We’ve been long committed to making these wonderful sites suitable for nature

lovers and their entertainment and wellness, always mindful of the nature of the land. This handbook,

which partially represents the interesting places and the opportunities offered to visitors, has been

conceived as a useful information and promotion tool in order to promote visits to the Regional

Forests, among other activities. Here readers can find brief but accurate information about the

woods, the ecosystems, the entertainment and sport activities available; there are also references

to get more detailed information about the Forests, seasonal events, activities and nature trails.

Information useful both to groups and to single visitors to the Forests, willing to take part in the

activities offered. The ten forests are the beginning of a journey to discover the surrounding places,

equally beautiful and fascinating sites constituting an unexpectedly pleasant discovery. Many old

villages deserve a visit due to their extraordinary cultural and historical heritage; there is a number

of natural sites characterized by biodiversity, beautiful landscapes, geological and environmental

peculiarities. This land and its population strenuously defend their historical and cultural traditions,

through valuable craftsmanship, farm products and local recipes. After spending the whole day

visiting museums and archaeological sites, tourists may enjoy traditional local food and have a

taste of the past. This land’s cuisine is based on the Mediterranean diet, which has been recently

awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. All those willing to know more about Campania will

find further information on the Campania Regional Government website, in the Department of

Agriculture section. In 2011, declared the International Year of Forests by the UN, we are ready

to offer tourists a pleasant and surely unforgettable experience in our forests and lands.

Vito Amendolara

Councilor for Agriculture

Forestry, Hunting and Fishing

Department of AgricultureForestry, Fishing and Hunting

Seeking the other side of Campania.

A totally green oasis within a land to be enjoyed.

History, art, culture, tastes,

filtered through nature.

Holidays in the forests.

Castel VolturnoCapua

S. Agata dei Goti

Procida

Ischia

NAPOLINola

Taurasi

Pietrelcina

BENEVENTO

AVELLINO

Capri

Calitri

Bagnoli Irpino

SALERNO

Amalfi

Paestum

Agropoli

PalinuroSapri

Padula

Sala Consilina

CASERTA

Sorrento

Ariano Irpino

Cerreto Sannita

Piedimonte MateseS. Marco dei Cavoti

Region owned forestin Campania

Province of Avellino

Mezzana ForestMonteverde irpino

Province of Benevento

Taburno’s ForestBonea, Bucciano and Tocco Caudio

Province of Caserta

Fontegreca’s Cypress ForestFontegreca

Province of Naples

1 Phlegraean Area and Mount Cuma’s ForestPozzuoli and Bacoli

2 Roccarainola’s ForestRoccarainola

Province of Salerno

1 Calvello ForestCampagna

2 Persano’s Wooded StripsSerre

3 Cuponi ForestSala Consilina

4 Mandria ForestSala Consilina

5 Vesolo ForestSanza

6 Cerreta Cognole ForestMontesano and Sanza

Department of AgricultureForestry, Fishing and Hunting

Printed in Italy

Copyright 2011 by

Regione Campania

All rights reserved

This publication has been designed

and made by SEMA, born to

communicate on behalf of

Regione Campania

General Coordinators

Daniela Lombardo

Claudio Ansanelli

Editorial Staff

Maddalena Venuso

Francesco Paciello

Giuseppe Ottaiano

Editorial Coordinator

Flavia Varriale

Photos

Archivio SEMA/Giuseppe Ottaiano

Regione Campania

Francesco Cona

Pre-printing

SEMA

Printing

Imago Media s.r.l.

Note

The writing of this

handbook was finished on

31 January 2011. The

greatest attention has been

paid in checking the

information contained in

the texts. We deny liability

for any changes in

addresses, websites etc. that

may occur after the above

date.

This handbook is part of the

information activities

promoted by

Measure 331 of Campania

RDP 2007/2010

co-financed by EAFRD

PAG. 41 Province of Naples

Roccarainola’s Forest

CONTENTSPAG. 9 Province of Avellino

Mezzana Forest

PAG. 17 Province of Benevento

Taburno’s Forest

PAG. 25 Province of Caserta

Fontegreca’s Cypress Forest

PAG. 33 Province of Naples

Phlegraean Area and Mount Cuma’s Forest

PAG. 59 Province of Salerno

Cuponi Forest and Mandria Forest


Persano’s Wooded Strips and Calvello Forest


Cerreta Cognole Forest and Vesolo Forest

MEZZANAForest

• Across a totallynaturalistic path

• In the ancient town ofMonteverde, the Saint Andrewfrom Conza’s stone

• Lagane and chickpeaswith Ravece DOPExtra-Virgin Olive Oil

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How to get there:

From Rome: A1 MI-NA MotorwayDirection NaplesContinue on A16. Exit Candela

From Bari: A30 NA-BA MotorwayDirection Naples – Exit Candela

Get onto SS655, continue onSS140 dir in the direction ofMonteverde Irpino

From the ancient town of Monteverde Irpino,you can have a breathtaking view of one of themost fascinating forest areas in Irpinia. Here weare in Mezzana Forest , across the gentle hillswhere Monteverde rises.This trapezium-shaped 350-hectare-forest goesdownstream westward till it reaches Ofanto River,surrounded by a thick scrub of willows andpoplars.In this area oaks, maples and hornbeams coexistwith the 1960s’ reforestation of conifers (maritimepines and cypresses) and eucalyptuses. Its habitatis particularly varied and hospitable; rich inbrooms, junipers and other Mediterranean shrubs,the perfect environment for lots of mammals(boars, badgers, foxes and hares), water birds(cormorants, herons and kingfishers), and raptors(hawks, sparrowhawks and buzzards), enrichedby a structure for deer’s restocking.

Identity CardName: Mezzana Forest

Location:

• Monteverde Irpino (AV)

Total Surface: 456 hectares

Altimetric range: 250/600 a.s.l.

Arboreal and shrub species:

• Copse (turkey oak, downy oak, Montpelliermaple, hornbeam, manna ash, service tree,field elm, phillyrea, black locust),

• Cypresses, brooms, roses.

Animal species:

• Black kite, red kite, peregrine falcon, lanner falcon, common kingfisher, white

stork, european bee-eater, common stilt,bat;

• Otter, boar.

Secondary forest products:

• Truffles and medicinal plants.

• A typical Mediterranean maquis flora with junipers, brooms, and myrtle, but also flax and wild asparagus and hardy perennials such as purple betony, wild clary,

and Phlomis herba-venti.Dog rose, borage and mallow

are also present.

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In the forestMezzana is lacking scouting orentertainment facilities. This place requirethe highest attention to its natural balance.This forest is advisable for expert trekkersaccustomed to medium and high-difficultycourses. It’s a real paradise for those wholove birdwatching and ethology.

The wood’s identityMezzana Forest is in North-West Irpinia, on theborder between the districts of Vulture andCapitanata. The lacking of high-impact humanactivities makes this natural resource one of themost uncontaminated sites.Its altimetric range goes from 250 to 600 metersa.s.l. and its substrate is made up of silicon andclay.The whole forest is part of a humid area constitutedby the artificial lake San Pietro, Ofanto River and

Conca della Campania’s artificial lake (a WWFoasis). This land has a remarkable biologicalimportance and constitutes a crucial habitat forthe preservation of biodiversity. This forest issuitable for birdwatching activities and as an open-air teaching laboratory.

The pines on the Ofantoshore

There’s a point in the forest where a line ofpines almost meets the river.Here you can listen to the slow water-flowing and also spot some cormorantsshaking their feathers.

• The typical mammals from the Campanian Apennines and sedentary birds coexist with migratory birds. The black stork has been recently spotted here while nesting, which only occurs in other nine Italian sites.

The landMonteverde is situated on the geographicalborders of Campania but is ethnographically andculturally linked to Irpinia.“Verde Hirpinia” refers to this land’s features: afertile land covered with grapevines, olive trees,woods and pastures.

In Irpinia great attention is paid to the foodfarming products.There’s a rich gastronomy where mountain,wood and brushwood products meet traditionalvalley and sheep-farming products.Chestnuts, hazelnuts, delicious mushrooms andintense truffles, cherries, vegetables, legumes,extra-virgin olive oil, wine, lamb and veal, honeyand cheese, are just one part of a very long listof unique products.This rich land lies in a context where traditionsare firmly preserved.

Calitri’s CaciocavalloThe Caciocavallo Silano DOP is one of the oldeststretched cheeses in the South of Italy. It is alsocited by Hippocrates in a 500 b.C. writing.Calitri, a few kilometers from Mezzana Forest,is one of the places where it’s made. Good cow’smilk and workmanship contribute to the makingof this excellent cheese.

The wine triangle, Lapio,Tufo and Taurasi

In Irpinia wine worth is guaranteed by threeDOCG wines, Avellino’s Fiano, Tufo’s Greco, andTaurasi.There are two types: Greco and Fiano are white,Taurasi is red. Three valuable, finely elegant,widely intense and very-well structured wines.

• Irpinia’s pecorinoIrpinia’s shepherds’ dairying

art turns the precious mountain pastures’ milk into pleasantly unique raw cheeses.

• Ravece, the olive tree’s magicRavece DOP, an oil from Ufita’s

hills. Intense smell and fruity flavour.

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A travel between spirituality and asceticism,visiting museums and old villages, fascinated byliterates’ stories, ancient pagan cults, lakes,landscapes, expert hands at work: emotional plotsof a living land.A silent travel to the museums: in Bisaccia, seekingthe Hirpini, in Calitri, pottery’s land, in Aquilonia,to live country life.The quietness among the prehistoric stones ofCarbonara or in Goleto Abbey, among medievalcastles and in Asanto Valley seeking the goddess

Lake San Pietro and the lights’ showFor over a month, between July and August, “THE BIG WATERSHOW” is held on Lake San Pietro in Monteverde. The mixing ofemotions, lights, pictures, dancing and acting occurs entirely overthe water in an amazing natural setting.The event celebrates the works by Saint Gerard Maiella, a veryesteemed spiritual figure. The show takings make up a social fundfor disadvantaged children.

The WWF Oasis ofConza della Campania’sLakeConza’s Lake originated from theOfanto’s dam and has beenintegrated into the WWF FaunaProtection Oasis since 1999.Stretching for 1300 ha., 800 ofwhich covered by the lake, theOasis is a lay-by for over 140species of migratory birds.

Mefite, while enjoying Carmasciano’s pecorino.And then lying in a cornfield to spot a raptor flyingor bathing in thermal waters or taking pictures ofherons, always surprised by the warmness of thisland and its people.These are some of the wonders of Northern Irpinia,a magical place to discover and to breathe slowlyand carefully.

• Calitri’s Pottery MuseumIt holds art objects dating back

to the 1700s’ until nowadays.

• Bisaccia’s Ducal CastleA 19th-century majestic

building, of Lombard origins, with thick walls and a

12-meters-high tower.

A view of Lake San Pietro- Aquilonia (AV)

Do not miss:

Aquilonia• Ethnographical Museum• Archaelogical Park

Tel. +39 0827 83004

Bisaccia• Ducal Castle / City Museum

Tel. +39 0827 89196www.museobisaccia.it

Calitri• Calitrian Pottery Museum• Old Town Centre

www.calitri.net

• Conza della CampaniaThe WWF Oasis of Conza’s LakeTel. +39 0827 [email protected]

Sant’Angelo dei Lombardi• Goleto’s Abbey

Tel. and Fax +39 0827 24432www.goleto.it - [email protected]

one-day trip:

Monteverde Irpino - Mezzana ForestAquilonia - Lake San Pietro

Three-day trip

Monteverde Irpino - Mezzana ForestAquilonia - Lake San Pietro, EthnographicalMuseum and Archaelogical ParkCalitri - Old Town Centre and PotteryMuseumSant’Angelo dei Lombardi - The Castle andGoleto’s AbbeyRocca San Felice - the Castle and MefiteBisaccia - The Ducal Castle and CityMusuem

Unmissable landscapes:

• Aquilonia - Lake San Pietro• Monteverde Irpino - Ofanto River

Tastes and flavours

• Irpinia’s DOC wines• Caciocavallo Silano Dop• Pecorino Carmasciano• Ufita’s Hill Extr-Virgin Olive Oil DOP• Chestnuts• Honey

Eventi

Calitri - Inter-regional Fair (September)Monteverde Irpino - The Big Water Show(August)Rocca San Felice - Medieval Festival (June)Sant’Angelo dei Lombardi - The Festival ofall Food Festivals (August)

Campania Regional GovernmentDepartment of AgricultureForestry, Fishing and Hunting

Via G. PorzioCentro Direzionale Isola A/680143 Napleswww.agricoltura.regione.campania.it

Provincial Executive Section for Forestsin Sant’Angelo dei Lombardi

Via Petrile83054 Sant’ Angelo dei LombardiTel. +39 0827 [email protected]

Tourism Provincial Authority – AvellinoVia due Principati, 32/A83100 AvellinoTel. +39 0825 [email protected]

LAG - CilsiPiazza della Vittoria 20/2283047 Lioni (Av)Tel. +39 0827 [email protected]

Monteverde Irpino Town HallVia Fontana83049 Monteverde Irpino (AV)Tel. +39 0827 86043www.comune.monteverde.av.it

Pro Loco Monteverde IrpinoVia Roma - 83049 MonteverdeTel. and Fax +39 0827 [email protected]

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TABURNO’SForest

• The local truffle under amantle of woods

• Old monasteries “among green cypresses and olive trees”

• Mushrooms and brushwood products enrich the local cuisine

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How to get there:

from Roma: A1 MI-NA MotorwayDir. Naples – Exit Caserta SudTake the SS Sannitica/SP36 toMontesarchio. Continue on theSP Vitulanese to Tocco Caudio

from Bari: A16 NA-BADir. Naples – Exit BeneventoContinue until Benevento Ovest.Continue on the SP Vitulanese toTocco Caudio

Taburno Massif has the shape of a sleeping girl,thereof the name “Sannio’s Sleeping Girl”, onwhose lap lies a 600-hectare-forest at an altitudeof 375 and 1394 meters.A wide and rich forest covering the areas of Bonea,Bucciano and Tocco Caudio.This forest is closely linked to the local traditionand culture. Its varied landscape is divided upinto different belts. In the submountain area,originally covered with oak forests, now pastures,grapevines and olive trees grow along with hophornbeams, manna ashes and maples. In themountain area the land is characterized by beechand silver fir woods.Woods and wide pastures alternate in betweenthe two areas. A naturalistically and geologicallyvaried environment, an ideal place for naturelovers and trekkers, a particularly cosy habitat forfamilies seeking a simple and direct approach tonature.

Identity CardName: Taburno’s Forest

Location:

• Bonea (BN)• Bucciano (BN)• Tocco Caudio (BN)

Total surface: 614 hectares



• Beeach trees, silver firs, spruce firs, black pines and larches, maples and hornbeams.

Animal species:

• Marmots, boars, hedgehogs, foxes• Peckers, peregrine falcons, buzzards, owl.


• Mushrooms, asparagus, truffles andofficinal plants.

Facilities:

• Picnic and concert area.

• A rich plant heritage where anemones are to be added to brooms, hawthorns, blackthorns and dog roses. Hornbeam woods host rare species such as orchids and orange lilies.

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In the forestTaburno’s Forest is particularly suitable forsport and entertainment activities. It’s a cosyplace for families seeking a close contactwith nature and having large equipped areasat their disposal, but it’s also an ideal placefor trekking and birdwatching activities.

The wood’s identityTaburno is an isolated massif in the CampanianApennines characterized by a calcareous anddolomitic sediment. Erosion phenomena havecreated plains and steep rocky slopes.Other geological phenomena contributed inmaking the territory botanically articulated.In the lowest areas you can find manna ashes,downy oaks, hornbeams and a few maples witha thick shrub brushwood and some holm oaks.Towards the top, you can find pines, cypresses,

cedars and broad-leaved woods, while on the

top a thick beech wood and hollies. Lots of epigeal(edible boletus, chanterelle, russula) and hypogealfungal species (black summer truffle) are alsopresent.

The local avifauna is quite heterogeneous andincludes mostly raptors; in the brushwood thereare mainly boars, foxes and badgers. In the winteryou can also see some wolves.

The king’s narrow roadBeing quite close to the Royal Palace ofCaserta, Taburno was the Bourbons’favourite hunting place and a path called“the king’s narrow road” is a testimonyof it.

• The local faunal heritage is characterized by a wide biodiversity. Among the most common birds are the great tit, the winter wren, the robin, the jay, the nuthatch, as well as the peregrine falcon, the buzzard, the sparrow, the common raven and the owl.

The landThis land hosted a tenacious people who was ableto keep the Romans “under the Caudine forks”.Tocco Caudio reminds this battle but Bonea claimsthe legacy of it due to some archaeological findings.Sabellians, the in-between land’s people, in theheart of Campania, discovered the sea, first inCumae and then in Pompeii. Today it is known thatin the Pliocene Epoch the sea used to be right whereTaburno is now. It’s a precious legacy, a complexand historically Lombard land.

Taburno and Southern Samnium constitute anarea of food farming specialties. Wine is the mostimportant product of local economy, thanks to12.000 grapevine hectares and a one-million-hectoliter-production. Then there is the PGI“annurca” apple, which has a-thousand-year-oldproduction modality. Excellent milk is used tomake cheese such as caciocavallo silano andLaticauda’s pecorino. Equally noteworthy are “theCentral Apennine PGI white tender beef”, theLaticauda lamb, with which delicious“mugliatielli” are made, and the local pork withwhich Castelpoto’s red hot sausage is made. Verysweet cherries from Tocco Caudio, strong onionsfrom Bonea. Excellent chestnuts and hazelnuts,along with a traditional production of Beneventanhills’ PDO extra-virgin olive oil.

Taburno’s AglianicoTaburno, a land dedicated to wine and olive oil.The Aglianico’s land, the Southern nebbiolo, agrape that here turns into a unique wine. It is anintense, smooth, dry wine that ages particularlywell, and is a landmark of Campania’svitiviniculture. Experienced vine-dressers growgrapevines that cover the harsh Taburno’smountainsides drinking in precious elements fromthe ground. It’s a wine that perfectly fits the localgastronomy.

• Dairy farming and pork meat processing are traditional activities. Brawns, sausages and bacon are the best expressions of such activities.

• A land’s good quality is best appreciated through food. Local traditions offer meals such as “cicatielli” with ripe ricotta cheese and “laina” with chichpeas.

Taburno’s annurca appleThe origins of this delicious Campanian apple dateback to 2000 years ago and even a fresco inHerculaneum shows it. The small, firm andpleasantly acidulous PGI annurca apple isintensively grown in the Caudine and TeleseValleys. This fruit is red-striped, smooth and waxy-skinned. It traditionally ripens on the ground, beingperiodically turned over on a layer of straw.

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Taburno is particularly rich in historical, culturaland environmental elements. Its varied andfascinating landscape is full of old town centers,hamlets, rural homes, old hermitages andsanctuaries. In the valleys there are manycultivations, which reminds an impressionisticpainting made up of vineyards, olive groves andorchards. On the top are the Karst plains ofCamposauro, Trellica, Cepino and Melaino, whichfunnel rainwater to the valley, making it passthrough an underground hydrogeological system

Montesarchio’s CastleIt was born as a Lombard blockhouse in the 8th century to controlthe whole Caudine Valley. Restored in the 13th century by FrederickII of Swabia, it has maintained the original basements, made up ofbig squared calcareous blocks, the original seats for the drawbridgechains and the original embrasures. In the 19th century, FerdinandI turned it into a prison. Today it hosts the Caudine National Museum,rich in Roman, Pre-Roman and Samnite locally found items.

The wheat festivalFoglianise’s wheat festival mayhave been a pagan rite in the past,later turned into a thanksgivingritual to Saint Roch. The event,which takes place on the 16th ofAugust, culminates into a floatparade showing scalereproductions of churches andhistorical monuments, made upof wheat-straw interwoven byskilled local artisans.

until it springs heavily in all its pureness. The mostinteresting sites are the old centers of the threetowns in the forest. In Bonea, in addition to themonumental Saint Peter and Saint Nicholas’churches, you can visit the Pizzillo Mausoleum,the Roman water tanks and Cocceius’ Villa. InBucciano you cannot miss the Taburno’s VirginMary’s 15th-century sanctuary and Saint Symeonand Saint Maurus’ Grottos. Though abandonednow, Tocco Caudio’s old urban centre is worth avisit for its surprisingly lying on a rocky spur.

• Taburno’s Virgin Mary’s Sanctuary, dating back to the late 15th century, hosts the wooden sculpture of a miraculous Saint Virgin.

• A place of worship of the hermit saint, Saint Symeon’s Grotto is a natural cave embellished with frescos.

A view of Mount Taburno from Montesarchio’s Castle – Montesarchio (BN)

Do not miss:

Montesarchio• The Caudine Samnium National Archaelogical Museum

Tel. [email protected]

Sant’Agata dei Goti• Cathedral and Romanesque crypt

www.prolocosantagatadeigoti.it

Pietraroja• Geopaleonthologic Park

Tel. +39 0824 861167

Bucciano• Mount Taburno’s Virgin Mary’s

Sanctuary• Saint Symeon’s Grotto

Tel. +39 0823 712742

Cerreto Sannita• Old and Modern Pottery Permanent Exhibition

Tel. +39 0824 861700

One-day trip:

Tocco Caudio - Taburno’s ForestMontesarchio - Caudine Samnium Museum

Three-day trip

Tocco Caudio - Taburno’s ForestMontesarchio - Caudine Samnium MuseumBucciano - Mount Taburno’s Virgin Mary’sSanctuary and Saint Symeon’s GrottoSant’Agata dei Goti - Cathedral andRomanesque cryptCerreto Sannita - Pottery PermanentExhibitionPietraroja - Geopaleonthologic Park


• Caudine Valley• Mount Taburno viewed from Montesarchio• Camposauro• Vitulanese Valley

Tastes and flavours:

• Taburno and Solopaca’s DOC wines• Pietraroja’s ham• Extra-virgin olive oil• Benevento’s nougat• San Marco dei Cavoti’s brittle• Samnite Laticauda’s pecorino

Eventi

Foglianise - The Wheat Festival (August)Montesarchio - Days in the hamlet(September)Sant’Agata dei Goti - Cherry Festival (June)Solopaca - Grape Festival (September)


Via G. PorzioCentro Direzionale Isola A/680143 Napoliwww.agricoltura.regione.campania.it

Provincial Executive Section for Forestsin Benevento

Via Torretta, 2982100 BeneventoTel. +39 0824 1901939Fax +39 0824 1901919Cell. +39 335 [email protected]

Tourism Provincial Authority - BeneventoVia Nicola Sala, 3182100 BeneventoTel. +39 0824 [email protected]

LAG- TaburnoLargo Sant’Erasmo82030 Torrecuso (Bn)[email protected]

Bonea Town HallVia Carre, 182013 Bonea (BN)Tel. +39 0824 834271Fax +39 0824 [email protected]

Bucciano Town HallVia Provinciale, 182010 Bucciano (BN)Tel. +39 0823 712742www.comune.bucciano.bn.it

Tocco Caudio Town HallVia Friuni Comune82030 Tocco Caudio (BN)Tel. +39 0824 [email protected]

Pro Loco [email protected]

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FONTEGRECA’SCypress Forest

• From an altitude of 400 metersthe cypress goes down into thevalley

• Waiting silently in the Virginof the Cypress' Sanctuary

• Olive oil, Matese's yellow gold

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How to get there:

From Rome: A1 MI-NAMotorway Dir. Naples – Exit SanVittore. Continue on SS6 and thenSS85 direction Venafro

From Bari: A16 NA-BAContinue to A30 direction Rome– Exit Caianello. Continue onSS430, then SS6, and lastly SS85direction Venafro

Fontegreca, situated on the western slopes ofthe Matese range in the north of Casertaprovince, was born around the year 1000 thanksto shepherds from Gallo and Letino who usedto take care of the pastures at the bottom of thevalley during winter for their herds. The CypressForest stands in its territory, extending for about70 Ha, between the Zappini wood and SavaRiver valley. The forest formation is by all meansatypical, characterized for 90% by a cypress ofthe Horizontalis variety, among the few that areresistant to cortex cancer, which has put to riskthe existence of these trees. The Zappini wood,which stands on the right of the Sava River whichpasses by a limestone gorge in that stretch, isrich in white hornbeam and downy oak trees.Around 400 meters above sea level we cannotice the cypress, which can be found even inthe lower valley and transforms the area in areal cypress forest. Its rapid diffusion, substitutingthe preexisting turkey oaks, holm oaks andfraxinus, makes this forest peculiar, even for itsfauna made up of rapacious and mammals. Thissite is not part of the regional property, but it isowned by the town of Fontegreca.

Identity CardName: Fontegreca’s Cypress Forest

Location:

• Fontegreca


Altimetric range: 400 meters a.s.l.


• Cupressus sempervirens L.var horizontalis,white hornbeam, downy oak

Animal species:

• jay, barn owl, buzzard, falcon, foxes, weasels,beech martens, hedgehogs, trouts, crayfish.

Facilities:

• equipped picnic areas

• he favorable ecologic environment has determined the spreading of cypresses notonly exclusively, but also alongwith hardwood trees such as white hornbeam, downy oak,holm oak and manna ash.

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In the forestThe Cypress Forest is made up of severalprivate properties and the only publicproperties are the town's ones, situated onthe banks of the Sava River. In such areasfilled with cascades and rapids we cansuggest some open air trekking, a healthyactivity to go along with fishing wherepermitted, with the aim of catching sometrouts and fresh water fishes.

The wood’s identitThe cypress forest, along with the Sava River,can be seen from the provincial road goingfrom the Fontegreca plains to Capriati alVolturno, on the Western slopes of the Matesemountain range. Its origin is not certain but themost credible hypothesis seems to be that ofsacred trees planted close to properties in apre-Roman age, taking in account the fact thatthe area was part of the Pentran Samnium. Thecalcareous soil, where the cypress grows in

density, is richer in humus and deeper. In the

areas with a less dense vegetal presence, thesoil is poorer in organic substances and incalcareous material. The whole Matese rangeis subjected to karst phenomena that arehighlighted by the presence of almost 200 cavesof different depth, natural ponors and sourcesof subterranean waters.

• Distinctive fauna both on theground and in the air: nightlyand daily rapacious (several kinds of owls, poiana, red kitesand hawks) live along with song thrush, common wood pigeon, Eurasian jay and crows. Among mammals we can find bats, foxes, badgers, wild boars, weasels, beech martens and hedgehogs.

Between cypressesand mineral waters

The cypress is paradoxically linked to water,not only in Fontegreca. The strong, yellowishwhite, hard, compact and resistant cypresswood has been used for thousands of yearsto build light and strong ships. The territoryis rich in mineral waters thanks to the karsterosion and an exceptional quality of theenvironment.

The landThe Matese mountain range is one of the biggestof the southern Appennines. Here the nature is evenmore wild and pristine. This area of more than 33000hectars is filled in creeks that are only partiallyvisible, as they run along karst holes and thenresurface in the valley. 20 towns of the Casertaprovince and 5 of the Benevento province are partof the marvellous Matese Regional Park, ascrupulously protected area, able to satisfydemanding and careful touristic fluxes.

For centuries the shepherds of the Matese areahave been grazing herds with the passing ofseasons. The artisan wisdom of the peasant andbucolic world produces unique pecorino,mozzarella and caciocavallo cheeses. The climateis good for the aging of hams and salamis suchas the 'cazzu ntontulu', typical of Castello Matese.From the woods we can get strawberries,blackberries and blueberries, along with oregano,marjoram, chestnuts and delicious mushrooms.On the lower slopes we can find olive farms fromwhere extra virgin olive oil is made. La Pezzata,an example of real delicacy of simple yet tastydishes, is a refined mix based on lamb, boiledfor a long time with products of woods andmountain pastures. Snail soups and taralli bisciutsare typical respectively of Ailano and SanLorenzello.

• Pratella's taralli biscuitsBread and baked products are among the traditional values ofthe territory. In the picture, theolive oil taralli biscuits from Pratella.

• Spun paste cheesesHerds of buffaloes offer qualitymilk, rich in flavour, that can be used for mozzarella and smoked treccioni.

Pallagrello, the wineof the Matese slopesOriginating from the Alife area, Pallagrello is a kindof grapes that has been known from the 18th centurywith the name 'pallarella', meaning little ball. It isone of the very few varieties of grapes which is bothred and white. Once it was also known as Piedimontegrapes, thought of as excellent and even present onthe King's tables. In fact, a 1775 tombstone inPiedimonte's Monticello area states the King's lovefor Pallagrello.

Vairano Patenora'sPeschiole

Peschiole, which somehow remind of big tableolives, are peach fruits taken from the trees withthe first thinning. Not longer than 2 cms and witha still soft core, they are kept in acidulated waterand used as appetizers. Its conserve, whosehistorical roots aren't known, is a typical peasantpreparation from Vairano Patenora.

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The Matese range offers a unique package ofnaturalistic, cultural and historical places. InPietraroja we can find calcareous fossils from theTriassic (200 million years ago), and there wasfound Ciro, the smallest known dinosaur. BetweenCapriati al Volturno and Venafro we can find theWWF Le Mortine oasis. The Lete caves, whichname comes from the infernal river which watershad the effect of removing the oblivion of a pastlife, can be found close to the Letino lake dam,an incredibly fascinating place for the fans ofspeleology. The landscape of Matese is filled with

The lakes of Gallo and LetinoThe artificial lakes of Gallo and Letino are formed by dams of theLete and Sava rivers. One century away from their creation, theyrepresent now the symbol of an extremely fascinating naturalisticenvironment. Before the dam, the Lete rivers deepened into theCaùto and during spring, they formed a lake that used to floodforming some falls on the Ravi valley. The waters are rich in fish and,in the summer, in migrators such as garganeys, mallards and coots.

Castrum Vayrani a.d. 1193In Vairano Patenora, on the slopesof Trebulani mountains, amedieval town of Norman originsis to be found: there, the failedsiege to the castle fortificationsfrom Henry VI of Swabia iscommemorated. The costumecommemoration usually takesplace on the first weekend ofAugust.

castles, boundary walls, towers and fortified towns.Most of them perfectly preserve their Medievalstructure. Among the places of worship the SantaMaria Occorrevole monastery in PiedimonteMatese is worth a visit: largely altered in thenineteenth century, its origins are to be traced inthe 1400's.

• Letino is in the heart of the Matese Park, situated more than a thousand metres abovethe sea level. A splendid viewon the lake and the mountain.

• On a hill, Pratella (from pratila,small lawns) is a name whichdefines the amenity of the place. An historical centre ready to be discovered.

A view of Lake Gallo - Gallo Matese (CE)

Do not miss:

Alife• Roman Amphitheatre

www.prolocoalifana.it

Capriati al Volturno• “Le Montine” WWF Oasis

Tel. +39 0865 411955www.oasilemortine.135.it

Letino• Arts and Traditions Museum

Tel. +39 0823 945187

Prata Sannita• County Life Museum

First and Second World Wars MuseumPotter’s MuseumTel. +39 0823 941080

Presenzano• Enel Museum

www.enel.it

One-day trip:

Fontegreca - The Cypress ForestGallo Matese - The lakeLetino - Arts and Traditions Museum

Three-day trip:

Fontegreca - The Cypress ForestGallo Matese - The lakeLetino - Arts and Traditions MuseumAlife - Roman AmphitheatrePrata Sannita - The Potter’s MuseumVairano Patenora - Medieval town andcastle


• Volturno River• Prata Sannita’s old town centre• The Lake of Gallo• Lete River

Tastes and flavors

• Terre Aurunche extra-virgin olive oil• Legumes• Alife onions• Pallagrello wine• Mushrooms• Black and white truffles• Buffalo Mozzarella DOP

Events

Vairano Patenora - Medieval festival(August)Castello Matese - Medieval Giostra (August)Alife - Onion festival (August)


Via G. PorzioCentro Direzionale, Isola A/680143 Napoliwww.agricoltura.regione.campania.it

Provincial Executive Section for Forestsin Caserta

Centro DirezionaleVia Arena loc. San Benedetto81100 CasertaTel. +39 0823 55144Fax +39 0823 [email protected]

Tourism Provincial Authority - CasertaTourist Information Centre

Palazzo RealeViale Giulio Douhet, 2A81100 CasertaTel. +39 0823 321137Fax +39 0823 326300

LAG - Alto CasertanoViale della Libertà 7581016 Piedimonte Matese (Ce)Tel. +39 0823 [email protected]

Fontegreca Town HallVia Roma, 7481014 Fontegreca (CE)Tel. +39 0823 944104 / +39 0823 944003www.comune.fontegreca.ce.it

Pro Loco FontegrecaTel. +39 0823 944801www.prolocofontegreca.it

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PHLEGRAEAN AREAand MOUNT CUMAE’SForest

• Silva Gallinaria’s holm oak forest and the fascinating humid area

• History, myth and mystery intothe Cave of the Sibyl

• The land’s promotion value inthe local traditional products

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How to get there:

From Rome: A1 MI-NA MotorwayDirection Naples

From Bari: A30 NA-BADirection Naples

Continue on Naples bypassExit Cuma – dir. ArcoFeliceContinue to Via Cuma LicolaTurn to Strada della ColmataFollow the roadsigns

A 150-hectare-forest within the PhlegraeanFields Regional Park divide Cumaearchaelogical site from the sea. A preciousnarrow green belt between the new mouth ofLake Fusaro and the seaside resort of Licola,representing a unique environment for itsnaturalistic, historical and cultural treasures.This forest, between Pozzuoli and Bacoli, inthe province of Naples, is a pleasant oasis inan area strongly marked by man’s presence.Its habitat is quite complex, particularly inSilva Gallinaria, whose humid area isextremely fascinating to ornithologists andbirdwatchers. The site’s features offer a uniquenaturalistic experience. In particular, thanksto the facilities available to visitors, the forestis a modern teaching lab equipped with largelearning spaces.You cannot miss the evocative dune routeleading you from the reception camp to LakeFusaro.

Identity CardName: Phlegraean Area and Mount Cumae’s Forest

Location:

• Bacoli and Pozzuoli – NA




• Field elm, elder, hawthorn, downy oak, narrow-leafed ash, stone pine.

Animal species:

• Black-headed gull, kingfisher, common tern,stone curlew, pratincole, common snipe, curlew.


• Mushrooms and officinal plants.

Facilities:

• Picnic area; signaled paths; SEPSA train station; multipurpose centre with teachingroom.

• It’s surprising to find a Circumphlegraean train stationin the middle of Cumae’s Forest, reachable directly fromCentral Naples. The PV-system-equipped-building also hosts a multipurpose reception campand some guest rooms.

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The wood’s identityUnder the benevolent eyes of an elephant rockwe can find the downy oak forest, that can be verydense and also alternated to the Mediterraneanshrub that grows on the marine dunes. In thereforestation zones, there are forests of domesticpines and also field elms, holm oaks, strawberrytrees and figs. English oaks and manna ashes areto be seen in the downy oak forest areas that areperiodically submerged by water. Among the shrubspecies of the typical dune vegetation we can find

myrtle, mastic, alaternus, rough bindweed andjuniper. The covering of ivy, rubia, mistletoe andwild blackberry is dense and it’s not easy to admirewild orchids, cyclamen and ciste, especially duringthe spring season. There is a strong presence ofsedentary and migratory birds, studied byornithologist experts. Robins, blackcaps, chiffchaffsand chaffinchs are some of the most studied birds.In the humid area, coloured water irises share thehabitat with several amphibian families.

• Home to the upupa and more than 30 other species of birds, among which are the common kestrel, the buzzard, the peregrinefalcon. In this mixed environmentit is also easy to find several shrubsand herbs. On the coast dunes the surprising dune lilium can befound.

In the forestVisitors and schools can take part in learningand recreation activities and can get to knowand live the forest, choosing from 70different proposals of local associations andenterprises. In September, the forest hostssome of the events of the Malazé festival,ten days of events dedicated to thePhlegraen Fields’ archeoenogastronomy.

The fireflies’ showNature in the forest is a magical show even atnight. The late spring and early summer nights,enlightened by small swarms of fireflies, arethe nicest and most emotional ones. In theSilva Gallinaria, fireflies watching is the mainevent of the weekend events called ‘the Woodand the Dunes’ that takes place in the forestfrom April to October.

The landThe fascinating landscape and the rich historicaland cultural value of the Phlegraean Fields are thebackground of Cumae Forest: it is in fact the pointwhere several Phoenician and Greek civilizationshave permitted the subsequent development of theNeapolis colony, around Megaris Island. A magicalplace for the Roman civilization, that thought of itas the entering place of the Inferi and the residenceof the famous Sibyl. A rich and fertile area, thanksto the precious volcanic deposits, land of ancientvineyards, splendid roman villas and fisheries.

It is, in fact, in this territory that excellentagricultural productions are obtained: the mostfamous is grapes, which thanks to the favorableclimate are transformed into red, white and roséwines of excellent sensorial qualities, fresh andtasty. The cultivation of legumes is ancient andstill very important: among these, we canremember the Miliscola beans (of the vuttulanand quarantine qualities) and the Phlegraeancicerchia. As for fruit trees, peach trees (wherethe “precoce di Francia” peach is grown)represents a local peculiarity, along with the‘botta a muro’ plums, so called for theirresemblance to a small firecracker. The Fusaroand Bacoli mussels enrich a varied yet traditionalgastronomy, whose highlights are to be foundin the fish sector.

• The round, angular cicerchia is often considered, wrongly, a ‘poor’ legume. It is in fact great if eaten along with mussels.

• The ‘botta a muro’ plum is a delicious violet fruit, whose fleshis savoury: it can be eaten freshor in jams.

The wine roads of the PhlegraeanFieldsUnder the Campi Flegrei DOC name are expertwinegrowers who transform the Piedirosso andFalanghina grapes in heavenly nectar. In this area,the two main vines who are symbol of Campania’swine production express unique characteristicsin their wines. The Phlegraen wines speak aboutthe area and contribute to the territory promotionby means of the ‘Strade del Vino dei CampiFlegrei’ association, reuniting producers, touristicand cultural structures for common activities.

Fish and fish marketsIn the local culture the fish is the symbol of richnessand wealth, that is also shown in the Phlegraeangastronomy. In order to taste the best products,you can visit the fish market of Pozzuoli, one ofthe few in Italy where piers for the direct sale offish straight from the sea can be found. Here it ispossible to find fresh fish and the best varieties arethose found in the waters of the Gulf.

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The Phlegraean Fields represent a touristic placeof big fascination, both for the proximity to Naplesand the value of the territory. The area offers dozensof exceptional landscape, artistic, cultural andenogastronomic attractions with a rich historicalbackground. These places, which were called HotFields by the Romans for their volcanic activity,were highly contended by Greeks, Romans, Osci,Samnites and Lombards. Pozzuoli and Cumae arethe main centers of cultural interest. In Baia,Mercury’s thermae, the submerged city and the

Archaeology in CumaeThe passion for history andarcheology can be fulfilled witha visit to the Archaeologic Park ofCumae with the Acropolis, theSibyl Cave, Arco Felice and theRoman crypt. Not to forget is theArchaeologic Park of BaiaSommersa, which is underwaterbecause of bradyseism. Guidedtours are cured by Archeosub.www.centrosubcampiflegrei.it

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Aragon Castle are to be visited and beyond thesea, there are the islands of Procida, Vivara andIschia. The Fusaro, Averno, Lucrino and Misenolakes remind us of precious turquoises in themiddle of beautiful landscapes where the sea andvineyards are breathtaking. The local food is to beremembered and the touristic acceptance isvaluable.

• Pozzuoli’s Solfatara is one of the most interesting volcanoesin the Phlegraean Fields. A not-to-miss excursion.

• Vanvitelli’s hunting ‘Casino’, fine example of rococo architecture from the 1700’s, can be found at the very centerof Lake Fusaro in Bacoli.

A view of Lake Averno – Pozzuoli

The temple pathHistory, legend and myth cross their paths in the place that is thoughtof as the ancient harbour of Cumae, where recently the ruins of anIsis-dedicated temple dating back to the first century BC-secondcentury AC were discovered.The temple, which can be reached with the temple path within theforest, testifies the cult of the oriental goddess that was associatedto the magic and to the afterlife world; this goddess was thought toprotect marriages and domestic arts daily.

Campania Regional GovernmentDepartment of AgricultureForestry, Fishing and HuntingVia G. PorzioCentro Direzionale, Isola A/680143 Napoliwww.agricoltura.regione.campania.it

Provincial Executive Section for Forestsin NaplesVia G. PorzioCentro Direzionale, Isola A/680143 NapoliTel. +39 081 7967607 - 7611Fax +39 081 [email protected]

Tourism Provincial Authority - NaplesPiazza dei Martiri, 5880121 NapoliTel. +39 081 [email protected]

Tourist Information Centre PozzuoliAutonomous Local Tourist Office -PozzuoliLargo Matteotti, 1/A80078 Pozzuoli (NA)Tel. +39 081 5266639Fax +39 081 [email protected]

Pozzuoli Town HallVia Tito Livio, 280078 Pozzuoli (NA)Tel. +39 081 8551111www.comune.pozzuoli.na.it

Pro Loco Pozzuoliwww.prolocopozzuoli.it

Bacoli Town HallVia Lungolago, 480070 Bacoli (NA)Tel. +39 081 8553111Fax +39 081 5234583Numero Verde: 800235763www.comune.bacoli.na.it

Pro Loco Bacoliwww.prolocobacoli.it

Do not miss:

Agnano• “Cratere degli Astroni” Natural Reserve

WWF OasisTel. +39 081 5883720

Bacoli• Cento Camerelle

Tel. +39 081 5233797 / +39 081 5233690• Piscina Mirabilis

Tel. +39 081 5233199

Baia• Archaeological Park

Tel. +39 081 8687592• The Phlegraen Fields’ Archaeological Museum

Aragonese CastleTel. +39 081 5233797

• Baia’s Underwater ParkTel. +39 081 8688923Fax +39 081 5275061www.areamarinaprotettabaia.it

Cuma• Archaeological Park

Tel. +39 081 8543060

Pozzuoli• Solfatara

Tel. +39 081 5262341

One-day trip:

Bacoli - The Phlegraean Area ForestBacoli - Archaeologic Park of Cumae

Three-day trip:

Bacoli - The Phlegraean Area ForestBacoli - Archeologic Park of Cuma andPiscina MirabilisBaia - Baia’s Underwater Park and thePhlegraean Fields’ Archaeologic MuseumPozzuoli - Solfatara


• Cape Miseno• Lake Averno• Lake Lucrino• Lake Fusaro with Vanvitellian Casino

Tastes and flavors

• Fish• Miseno mussels• The Phlegraean Fields’ DOC wines• DOP buffalo mozzarella

Events

Pozzuoli - Malazé (September)Cuma - The Wood and the Dune (April toOctober)

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ROCCARAINOLA’SForest

• Walks, trekking and biking in a friendly nature

• The chestnut festival, the autumn event to warm up the first cold days

• Simple products and traditional local meals

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How to get there:

from Rome: A1 MI-NA motorwaydirection NaplesContinue on the A30. Exit Nola

from Bari: A30 NA-BA motorwaydirection Naples - Exit NolaKeep going on Var.SS7BIS toRoccarainola.

Roccarainola’s Forest, which is part of thePartenio Regional Park, has a total surface of950 ha. The site, entirely included in the townfrom which it takes the name, is the meetingpoint between the provinces of Naples,Avellino, Caserta and Benevento and itrepresents an important natural site justkilometres away from the metropolitan areaof the city of Naples, which extends itself tothe town of Nola. This area is welcoming for families searchingfor a dimension of natural wellbeing and, atthe same time, natural and pristine fortrekkers, birdwatchers and mountain bikers.There are, in fact, several equipped areas thatoffer visitors moments of comfortablesocialization.But what is most fascinating is the magic ofpaths inerpicating in the woods, a wildlynatural habitat, enjoyable within apreservation context.The welcoming package of Roccarainola’sForest also features six guided paths whichcomplete its fascination.

Identity CardName: Roccarainola’s Forest

Location:

• Roccarainola (NA)




• Chestnuts, Neapolitan Alder, Douglasia, Beech, Wild Hazel, Hornbeam,

Hop Hornbeam. • Brushwood: Coronilla shrub, Blackthorn,

Common Dogwood and Broom.

Animal species:

• Wild boar, Badger, Hedgehog, Fox, Common snake;• Common blackbird, Buzzard, Peregrine

Falcon, various species of Passeriformes.


• Mushrooms, truffles, soft fruit, officinal plants.

Facilities:

• equipped picnic areas, signed paths.

• There are about a hundred species: other than the typical

mammals of the southern Apennines, there are several birds including the peregrine falcon, the robin, the woodpecker and the tit.

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In the forestNaturalists, trekkers, ecologists and naturelovers can enjoy photography, birdwatching,trekking, walking, biking, or take part in the‘forest days’ offered by the STAPF. Otheractivities can be booked in advance.

The wood’s identityThe wood is rich of chestnuts, Neapolitan aldersand several types of oaks. The Mediterranean shrubowns the underwoods and clearing with rosemary,mistletoe, broom and rosehip. Deliciousmushrooms are also present, and if you’re lucky,you might find some truffles. Moving to higheraltitudes, you might find wild hazels and ancienthornbeams. Many species typical of the Apenninesfauna found home in this peculiar habitat and it’seasy to find badgers, hedgehogs, foxes and wild

boars, along with stationary and migrant birds, inthe paths most filled with vegetation. From thehighest altitudes the buzzard and the peregrinehawk can be observed, with a spectacularlandscape that can stretch for kilometres andkilometres especially in the case of clear skies.Under us the fertile Campanian plains with theVesuvius while far beyond, the sky almost touchesthe sea.

Costa Grande terracesTwo hectares of land host the Costa GrandeTerraces: plants that are grown to safeguardthe forests of Campania are grown there.Opened to the public, the terraces are easilyreachable and they are a precious didacticinstrument for the spreading of greenculture.

• Coronilla shrub, blackthorn, broom, common dogwood are part of the local shrubs. Among other plants we can find ivy, borage, sanicula, anemone, ornithogalum, Saint Robert’s geranium and rosemary.

The landThe forest of Roccarainola tops Agro Nolano andis an area rich in culture and history, with astrategic position in inland Campania, especiallyif you need to reach Avellino. This area had anintense fascination on Osci, Samnites andRomans who have left traces of their presence.A land that was home to Giordano Bruno, aninnovator of the human mind, and that yet haskept its traditions.

A typical example is the art of making pasta andbread which has reached heights of rareexcellency.The hazel that Linnaeus called ‘avellana’ isintensively produced, almost if the area was thecenter of its Mediterranean diffusion.The horticultural and fruit productions are typicalof an area which might feature places with anhigh irrigation, and that’s maybe where thedelicious ‘friariello napoletano’, a delicious turniptop with unique characteristics, was born. As forfruit, other than the traditional citrus fruits we canfind the Diospiro vanilla, a kaki locally calledLegnasanta that is still used in the peasant familiesas dessert.

Roccarainola,“ancient land of the hazel”Great names of the food industry employ theAgro Nolano hazels, but the so called ‘avellana’is not only destined to be an ingredient of creams,chocolates and torrone. In the towns that areclose to the Roccarainola forest, that are part ofthe ‘Ancient Hazel Lands Circuit’, artisanalproductions valorise the seeds, that can enrichpasta, some meats, fresh cheeses and coffee.

• Neapolitan PappacellaIt’s a small, flat, tasty pepper.

In oil or in vinegar, it usually goes with pork.• ‘e Friarelli

Turnip tops boiled in oil with their own water: it’s one of the most appreciated local foods.

Mugnano SalamiIn the Mugnano di Cardinale area the traditionalNeapolitan salami that the Minister of Agriculturehas recognized as ‘traditional Italian food’ wasborn. This special salami’s peculiar taste is smokedand sweet, slightly herbaceous, that is given bythe aging exploiting the perfume-rich winds comingfrom Roccarainola’s Forest.

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A chain of castlesThe Nolan plain has always been a border between coastal andinternal Campania; here a chain of castles, testimony of a constantand important human trace, was born with functions of control.Beyond the Maddaloni towers and the Cancello Castle, visible fromthe forest but out of its area, there are the ruins of Avella Castle,Roccarainola Castle and Castelluccia, the Norman Castel Cicala inNola and, towards Naples, the Duke’s Castle in Marigliano.

The LiliesFestival inNolaAmong the 500most beautifulpopular festivals inEurope, theprotagonists aregiant woodenmachines, coveredin papier-macheand maneuveredby thecorporations ofartisan works. Thefestival takes placeduring the wholemonth of June withthe ballad ofstripped lilies, thedressing and thefinal dance.

Diocesan and Archaeologic Museum in an urbanarea. History and folklore intertwine in thecelebrations of Agro Nolano that remind us ofancient rites. The courtesy of its inhabitants canbe appreciated in the welcoming flair of its hotelsand bed&breakfasts, collocated on the wholeterritory. The gastronomy offers typical dishes andtraditional foods but is also opened to the bigrestoration, especially in Roccarainola, with peaksof culinary excellency.

• In Cimitile, where the first primitive pagan necropolis was, we can find a complex ofseven Early Christian churches,dated from the 3rd to the 5thcentury AC.

• In Avella you can go from a Roman amphitheatre to the Medieval castle, from the natural caves to a rocky cascade.

In about 30 kilometres, visitors can enjoy one ofthe historically richest places in Campania, wheregreat populations have built civilizations the localculture is still imbued with. The main centre isNola, an ancient Osco-Samnite place, militarybase and refugium tranquillitatis of EmperorAugustus. Stopping in Nola and its surroundingscan make you able to travel in time, from thePrehistorical village of San Paolo Belsito to theEarly Christian Basilicas of Cimitile, from theMedieval convent of Sant’Angelo in Palco to the

The Coast and Mount Vesuvius from the Belvedere del Sindaco – Roccarainola.

Do not miss:

Acerra• The Mask, Folklore and Country Life

Museum – Baronial CastleTel. +39 081 8857249www.pulcinellamuseo.it

Avella• Roman Amphitheatre• Antiquarium• Castle

www.gruppoarcheologicoavellano.org

Cimitile• Early Christian Basilicas

Tel. +39 081 5123126www.prolococimitile.it

Lauro• Lancellotti Castle• “Umberto Nobile” Museum

www.prolauro.it

Nola• Diocesan Museum and Episcopal Seminary Antiquarium

Tel. +39 081 3114632• Nola’s Lilies Ethnomusical Museum

Tel. +39 081 8239974www.giglidinola.it

• Ancient Nola Historical Archaelogical Museum

Tel. +39 081 5127184

One-day trip:

Roccarainola - The ForestCimitile - Early Christian churches

Three-day trip:

Roccarainola - The ForestCimitile - Early Christian churchesAvella - Castle and Roman AmphitheatreNola - Diocesan Museum and Ancient NolaHistorical Archaeologic MuseumLauro - Lancellotti Castle and “UmbertoNobile” Museum


• Vallo di Lauro• Polvica Valley

Sapori e aromi

• Vesuvian apricots• Neapolitan ‘papaccelle’• Piennolo tomatoes• DOC Vesuvian wines• DOP buffalo mozzarella

Eventi

Cicciano - Palio dei Quartieri (May/June))Cimitile - Literary Prize (June)Nola - Lilies Festival (June)Roccarainola - Chestnut Festival (October


Via G. PorzioCentro Direzionale, Isola A/680143 Napoliwww.agricoltura.regione.campania.it

Provincial Executive Section for Forestsin Naples

Via G. PorzioCentro Direzionale, Isola A/680143 NapoliTel. +39 081 7967607 - 7611Fax +39 081 [email protected]

Tourism Provincial Authority - NaplesPiazza dei Martiri, 5880121 NapoliTel. +39 081 [email protected]

LAG - PartenioVia Caprioli 2583030 Santa Paolina (Av)Tel. +39 0825 [email protected]

Roccarainola Town HallVia Roma, 980030 Roccarainola (NA)Tel. +39 081 8293449Fax +39 081 5118414www.comune.roccarainola.na.it

Pro Loco Roccarainolawww.prolocoroccarainola.itinfo@prolocoroccarainola.it

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PERSANO’S WOODEDSTRIPS andCALVELLO Forest

• Oaks and holm oaks, shrubs, hardwood trees along the Sele

river.

• Towards the coast, the majestictemples of Paestum, a MagnaGraecia colony devoted to Poseidon.

• The round artichoke of Paestum, a precious local gem,with the PGI trademark.

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How to get there:

Persano’s Wooded StripsFrom Rome: A1 MI-NA motorwaydirection Naples, then on to theA30 direction Salerno, then on tothe E841 and A3 direction ReggioCalabria, exit Campagna directionSerre.

from Reggio Calabria: A30motorway direction Salerno,exit Campagna direction Serre.

Almost at the beginning of the Cilento coast,towards the inner part, the territory of the townof Serre hosts the Persano woods. Part of theso called Sele zone, made of fluvial terracesfor the Sele and Alimenta rivers, it is made oftwo different green stripes, linear and welldefinite.All around are cultivated areas of privateproperty and a military zone.Not far from the WWF oasis, with which theyshare a big part of the vegetal and animalspecies, the woods of Persano within the townof Serre are characterized by the peculiarityof the arboreal and shrub formations.Between the Picentini and Alburni mountains,the state-owned areas are suitable for thetouristic and naturalistic activities in the forest.At the center of an area full of medieval towns,often built on sites of ancient Greek colonies,then substituted by Romans, Byzantines,Normans until the Bourbons, these woods lookto the Paestum coast, the biggest archeologicalcomplex of Magna Graecia.

Identity CardName: Persano’s Wooded Strips

Location:

• Serre (SA)


Altimetric range: 20/60 meters a.s.l.


• turkey oak, hornbeam, field maple,holm, holm oak, black and white hornbeam,Judas tree, laurel, fraxinus, fig, poplar, smilaxaspera, Neapolitan alder, lime, viola alba,rose.

Animal species:

• white heron, hen harrier, crane, spotted redshank, albatros, turtle dove;

• otter.


• chestnuts, mushrooms, truffles, soft fruits, officinal plants.

• The arboreal and shrub formations are rich of flower

species, and in the wood youmight easily find bats, otters, water birds, sparrows.Raptors fly up above.

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The wood’s identityThe Persano woods represent a mosaic ofdifferent woods, in which the single partscoexist generating a complex ecosystem. Fromthe riparian wood, which is parallel to watersand usually made up of poplars and willows,to more elevated woods made up of hardwoodtrees, especially oaks, hornbeams and fraxinus.Reforestation zones, positioned on more or lessbristling slopes, host oaks, holms, laurel andwild fruit trees such as wild apple and wild

pear trees. There are numerous shrub formationssuch as brooms, tamarisks, roses and thepeculiar climbing hedera, clematis and smilaxwhich create sort of drawings on the trees,almost as to describe fantasy subjects in theforest. The fauna is as rich as the wood, perfectobjects of study and observation.

• The common moorhen is a bird whose ideal habitat can be found in the mouths of rivers and in humid areas where it lives and nests. Very famous in Europe, it often breeds. In the Persano woods,

you can often hear its call.

In the forestThe naturalistic and didactic observationsare among the principal activities in thePersano woods. Walking along thewaterways is good in order to observeunusual species of birds. The secular woods,worth being inserted in the national registerof ancient forests, offer relax and rest duringthe excursions.

Woods and cultivationsThe woods are home and food fornumerous antagonists of species which aredangerous for the cultivations. Long beforeverifying it scientifically, men haveunderstood that a place with a highbiodiversity index, like a forest, contributesto create a not so favorable habitat becauseof the development of dangerous insects,and so they have planted woods along thecultivated fields.

The town of Campagna, in the province ofSalerno, is topped by mountain ranges of variousnames. One of these, known as Calvello, at thewestern tip of the Picentini mountains, hosts astate-owned forest that has to protect the slopesfrom erosion. The access is not easy, becausethe state-owned zones are intertwined withprivate properties, but the footpath along theold Sant’Elmo path is fascinating and suggestedto expert trekkers. Pastures full of trees are mixedwith turkey oaks, and often the presence of wildspecies of cultivation trees shows the strictinteraction between men and forests. Going allthe way down from the top, with an excursionuntil 300 metres above sea level, other treesand shrub are mixed with oaks, along with fieldsof graminoids. The presence of zones withsparse vegetation and rocks somehow limitsthe presence of fauna, which is still present withspecies of notable interest anyway. MountCalvello and the forest are topping the town ofCampagna, that has been practicing animportant role of defense since the middle ages,and especially under Frederic II.

Identity CardName: Regional Forest of Calvello

Location:

• Campagna (SA)




• wild apple, wild pear, turkey oak, hornbeam,poplar, maple, holm oak, black hornbeam,chequers tree.

• Rose, blackthorn, salvia glutinosa, broom of Spain, asparagus, mistletoe.

Animal species:

• tawny pipit, peregrine hawk, collared flycatcher, woodlark, fieldfare, woodcock,turtle dove, redwing, grey partridge, common quail, skylark, imperial crow;

• wolves.


• mushrooms, truffles, soft fruits,officinal plants.

• Campanulas, digitalis, anemones, cyclamens and other flower species make upcoloured stains on the woodlands. The imperial crowand the jays are part of the site’s fauna, along with the rapacious and venatory speciessuch as the rock partridge, nowadays rare.

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In the forestThe Calvello forest is now part of theinteractive environmental lab “Forests inmotion” that is being formed in 2011 bythe Regional Committee of the Italian Sport-for-All Association. The activities that areproposed can go along with birdwatchingand naturalistic observation.

The wood’s identityThe Calvello wood, characterized by zones withsparse vegetation, is going to be more and moredense with the time passing with a newvegetation which is though subjected to thesummer fires. On the western slopes, the turkeyoak and the black hornbeam prevail over theholm oaks which are still present at 900 metresabove sea level. At inferior heights, these speciesare followed by several types of oaks whileterraces in the valleys are home to poplars on

a carpet of ferns. The geological characteristicsof the soil, mainly calcareous, along with theabundance of light might explain the unevenaspect of this wood. Roses, blackthorns andheathers make up the shrub part. The southwestern slopes appear bare because of thepresence of the calcareous matrix and thewashout of the soil with sparse oaks and rareevergreen shrubs. The inferior part is occupiedby holm oaks, at whose margins are firewalls.

And once upon a timethere used to be charcoal...

As usual on the Apennines, the Calvellowood used to be destined to the productionof charcoal. Old coal yards and paths arestill there to tell us about the hard and patientwork of coal workers, that from the cuttingof the tree (especially turkey oak) built the‘catuozzi’, stacks made to burn slowly to‘cook’ the wood. It’s just a memory by now.

How to get there:

Calvello Forestfrom Rome: A1 MI-NA directionNaples, on to the A30 motorwaydirection Salerno, then on theE841 and A3 direction ReggioCalabria, exit Campagna.

from Reggio Calabria: A30motorway direction Salerno, exitCampagna.

The landThe woods of Persano and Calvello Forest belongrespectively to the territories of Serre andCampagna, linked by history and geography, whichsees them positioned along rivers such as the Seleand the Tenza. The presence of waters has led tothe creation of the Persano and MontePolveracchio oasis, that give luster to the two townsas important for the naturalistic interest. The forestsintegrate the site’s biodiversity, and the biggestphotovoltaic central can be found on the territoryas well.

The whole province of Salerno is rich ingastronomy: here we are close to the plains ofSele, where buffaloes roam around in the wildand their milk is some of the most precious whichcan be found. The buffalo mozzarella, fromBattipaglia onwards, is the real gastronomy queenof the territory, while from the Apennine cows’milk the DOP Caciocavallo Silano is made. ThePGI artichoke is the most important cultivationof the plains, and the DOP Salerno Hills’ oliveoil is the ideal companion for these foods whichare worth a visit alone. Tradition and the popularculture are very important for the localgastronomy, which brings fresh pastas with beansand chickpeas, soffritto, ‘glummarielli’ with lambinteriors, ‘cimbuttelle’ and vegetable soups,‘cunzate’ potatoes with sausages.

• MozzarellaSlightly sourish taste, milk ferments, big (Zizzona di Battipaglia) or small (bocconcini and ciliegine).

• The buffalo productsFrom buffalo milk you can alsoenjoy ricotta cheese, yoghurt,icecream and delicious fresh,smoked and filled cheeses.

DOP Salerno Hills’ Olive OilDOP Olearia comprehends 87 towns betweenthe Amalfi Coast and Vallo di Diano, amongwhich are Campagna and Serre. The Salerno Hills’olive oil is green, with yellowish reflects, rich infruity flavours. Rotondella, Frantoio, Ogliarolaand Leccino are the varieties, introduced a longtime ago or originating in the area. This productwith distinctive organolectic and nutritionalcharacteristics is created thanks to the respect ofhigh standard disciplines of production andmechanization.

Cucumber flowersThe cucumber flowers, usually available insummer, are delicious if covered in a water,flour and salt batter and then fried. They’reequally good if you add yeast or other localtraditional ingredients such as anchovies andprovola cheese to the batter.

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The bordering territories of Serre and Campagna,just away from Salerno, are at the center of an areawhich touristic offers range from archeology tohistory, not to miss great works of advancedtechnology. The forest is also a subtle hint todiscovering the Holy Virgin sanctuary and thePeasant Museum in Serre, as well as the ruins ofGerione Castle, antique monasteries and bourgeoispalaces in Campagna. Between the Calore andSele rivers we can find traces of the Bourbons inthe Real Casina, that had one of their hunting

The Memory and Peace MuseumTelling the absurdities of Fascism, Carlo Levi detected the limits ofthe world and of history in Eboli. Few people know that Campagnawas a site of pre-internment for the Jewish destined to lagers from1940 to 1943. The Memory and Peace Museum bears witnesses ofthe humanitarian work of Bishop Palatucci, the uncle of Fiume’squaestor and martyr for peace Giovanni Palatucci, who is in the listof Israel’s ‘right among the world peoples’ for his commitment tosave Jews.

The WWF oasis of PersanoOn the banks of the Sele river, inthe Sele-Tanagro mouth naturalreserve, the oasis of Persano is oneof the protected wet zones of Italy.The otter has its kingdom in theswamp zones among woods,Mediterranean shrub andgrasslands full of flowers.Freshwater fish and insects are foodfor migrant birds.

lodges in Persano. The Persano horse was broughtup here, tame and prone to equestrian sports andtourism. The Photovoltaic Centre is pure avantgardeand is at a short distance from the PaestumArcheological area. Country houses and Bed andBreakfasts and big hotels especially aroundCapaccio would love to host you during yourtravels, completing the pleasure of the journeyalong with the local gastronomy ranging fromtraditional foods to foods of the territory.

The Olive Tree Virgin Mary• A fifteenth-century sanctuary,

it bears the name of a sacredtree and it is important for thelocal economy.

Tenza river’s ‘Chiena’• Used to clean up the streets in

the past, the controlled flooding of the river takes placein the summer weekendsin Campagna.

Cilento National Park, province of Salerno.



Provincial Executive Section for Forestsin Salerno

Via Generale Clark, 10384125 SalernoTel. +39 089 3079215Fax +39 089 [email protected]

Tourism Provincial Authority - SalernoVia Velia, 1584125 SalernoTel. +39 089 [email protected]

LAG - The well-being pathsLargo Padre Pio84020 Laviano (Sa)Tel. 0828 915312www.isentieridelbuonvivere.itcoordinamento@isentieridelbuonvivere.it

Serre Town HallVia Vittorio Emanuele84028 Serre (SA)Tel. +39 0828 974900 - 974901Fax +39 0828 [email protected]

Campagna Town HallLargo della Memoria84002 Campagna (SA)Tel. + 39 0828 241200Fax + 39 0828 [email protected]

Pro Loco di Campagnawww.prolococittadicampagna.itprolococittacampagna@libero.it

Do not miss:

Campagna• The Memory and Peace Museum

www.memoriapace-campagna.it

Castelcivita• Castelcivita’s Caves

www.turismoinsalerno.it

Serre• WWF Oasis of Persano

www.wwf.it/persano.nt• Serre’s PV Power Station

www.enel.it

Paestum• Archaeological Park

Tel. +39 0828 811023• National Archaeological Museum

Tel. +39 0828 722654

One-day trip:

Serre - Persano woods,WWF oasis of Persano

Three-day trip:

Serre - Persano woods and WWFoasisCampagna - historical center, Memory andPeace MuseumCastelcivita - Castelcivita CavesPaestum - Archaeological Park


• Sele river mouth• Oasis of Persano

Tastes and flavors

• DOP Caciocavallo Silano• PGI Paestum artichokes• Controne beans• DOP buffalo mozzarella• DOP Salerno Hills’ Extra-Virgin

Olive Oil• DOC Cilento wines

Eventi

Campagna - Portoni Ghiotti (August)Campagna - Water festival (August)Paestum - Paestum festival (July/August)Serre - Alburni Jazz Festival (August)

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CUPONI and MANDRIAForest

• Seasonal springs among oak copses, conifer forests, shrubsand meadowlands

• City architectures tell about history

• Truffles in the forest, ingredientsof fragrant main courses

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How to get there:

Cuponi ForestFrom Rome: A1 MI-NA MotorwayDir. Naples – Get onto A30 Dir.Salerno, continue on E841, enterA3 dir. Reggio CalabriaExit – Sala Consilina

from Reggio Calabria: A30Motorway, dir. Salerno - Exit SalaConsilina

Sala Consilina, the most populated centre inthe Vallo di Diano plateau, hosts two regionalwooded areas. In the Maddalena Mountainsis Cuponi Forest, historically established inbrown lands, which are deeper in rainwaterharvesting areas, and more superficial in thesurface-rocky or autumn-spring-rain-erodedareas.In some areas bushfires have caused forestthinning. Elsewhere conifer replantings havebeen carried out. Sala Consilina, placed atthe foot of the mountain, in-between thecultivated plains and the mountain, enjoysthe presence of the forest for the climate andthe environmental protection.Local vegetation is the product of amanagement policy aiming to wildlifeconservation. Such policy has made copsesturn into timber trees, has bettered the accessto the forest and also made the building of arefuge possible.

Identity CardName: Cuponi Forest

Location:

• Sala Consilina (SA)




• Hazel, beech, Turkey oak, pear, wild apple,downy oak, manna ash, lobel’s maple, hophornbeam, chestnut.

Animal species:

• Bats, black kite, quail, blackbird,song thrush.


• Chestnuts/sweet chestnuts, mushrooms, truffles, soft fruit, officinal plants.

• A number of flower species blossom in wide fields, such asgeranium columbinum and orange lily. You can also smelloregano, sage, coronilla shrubsand brooms.

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In the forestJust like Calvello Forest, Cuponi Forest isincluded in the interactive environmentallab called “FORESTS IN MOTION”promoted by the Regional Committee ofthe Italian Sport-for-All Association. Visitorscan autonomously practice naturalisticobservation.

The wood’s identityCuponi Forest has a 500-hectare-surface distributedon different altimetric levels,which determinesarboreal formations. On a medium height, in theturkey oak forest, downy oaks, manna ashes, lobel’smaples, hop hornbeams live together withdogwoods, coronillae, hawthorns and weaver’sbrooms. In the oldest Southward woods, the hazelappears, while in the Northward areas the mannaash and the hop hornbeam prevail. On the lowestareas, there are beeches and poplars and the

flowery red carpet smells of licorice andchamomile. Cuponi Forest is crossed by paths, oldtravelling routes for man’s activities. There is anumber of birds, mostly blackbirds, passerines,quails and black kites. In this environment, lotsof bats prosper due to some sings of plantdeterioration.

Let’s save the forestReforestation is crucial to forest protection.In Cuponi Forest, this activity focuses onthe aleppo pine which is able to renovateon burnt land, along with the maritime pineand the Monterey pine, originally comingfrom California.

• Only six bird species are to befound in this site, the blackbird,the red-backed shrike, the thrush, the mistle thrush, the quail and the black kite. Bats nest in Cuponi, which meansthat small mammals adapt tothe surrounding environmentbetter than other species.

Mandria is the other State-owned forest in SalaConsilina. Less rough than Cuponi, its name isa testimony of the presence of man, who usedto pasture animals and produce charcoal. Itcovers some rather steep mountainsides of theMaddalena Range, with mainly turkey oak orchestnut copses, planted allegedly by the friarsof Padula Charterhouse in 1714. The forest isrich in seasonal streams and hosts severalsprings, some of which goes into the cityaqueduct. There are different types of copses:on the rocky sides of Mount Schiavo mannaashes, hop hornbeams and downy oaks livetogether. On Cavallo Mount, the turkey oakmixes with the beech and gives it way at 900meters. A century-old beech, five meters round,is to be found close to a fountain near Casonerefuge. Mandria is the ideal habitat to thebadger and the holly. In Vaccarizzo locality, anold disused pasture, a chestnut forest has beenplanted using grafts coming from Vesolo Forest.

Identity CardName: Mandria Forest

Location:

• Sala Consilina (SA)

Total Surface: 471 hectares



• Turkish pine, common cypress, holm oak, terebinth, holly, Acer opalus obtusatum, beech, hazel, hawthorn, coronilla, commonbroom, elder, dog rose, chestnut

Animal species:

• Black kite, quail, blackbird, badger.


• Chestnuts/sweet chestnuts, mushrooms, truffles, soft fruit, officinal plants.

Facilities:

• Equipped picnic area; State Forestry CorpsRefuge

• The migratory black kite feedson the bats living in the forest.the abundance of water, whichin Cilento and Vallo di Dianocreates appreciated mineral springs, allows the development of a varied wildlife.

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In the forestWalks by streams tracing water paths.Relaxing in the forest, under a green tentwhile looking for soft fruits or herbs. Forthose more experienced, uphill paths whereto go trekking.

The wood’s identityThere are different types of copses accordingto the altitude ranging from 450 to 1302 metersa.s.l. At a low altitude, on the Western sidestoward Vallo di Diano, the old mixed copseincludes conifer reforestations, as well as hazelsand shrubs such as common broom and elder.Brooms, similarly to downy oaks, allow thegrowth of truffles. In addition to hollies, dogroses and hawthorns are to be mentioned. Thethick grass layer includes different flower

species, such as wood spurge and broad-leavedhelleborine. Willow trees live near the streamswhile alders are to be sporadically found at thefoot of the mountain. There is a number of practicable paths, bothon foot and by car, and well-preserved muletracks.

A scented gardenThe forest is home to herbs. Sage, oreganoand others make up a scented gardenlooked after by the forestry personnel. InMandria, the salvia glutinosa grows morespontaneously than common sage, knownfor its antiseptic, digestive and sedativeproperties. Oregano is known for itsantioxidant property.

How to get there:

Mandria’s ForestFrom Rome: A1 MI-NA motorwayDir. Naples – get onto A30Dir. Salerno, continue on E841,and then A3 dir. Reggio Calabriaexit Sala Consilina.

from Reggio Calabria: FromReggio Calabria: A30 motorwayDir. Salerno, exit SalaConsilina.

The landIn the sole town of Sala Consilina you can findthe testimonies of all the local historical events.The border between the Cilento Park and Lucaniawitnessed very old peoples and dominationsfollowing one another, thus determining a uniquecultural stratification. The city antiquarium, thecivil and religious architectures along with thesurrounding landscape are all narrating pictures,while the local traditional products speak withour eyes and tastes. The Cilento National Parkoffers extremely beautiful naturalistic sites.

Cilento means a lifestyle pivoting on a culinaryart that enhances local products. From mozzarellato the whole provinces’ other traditional cheeses,from Controne’s beans to cacio ricotta, apeculiarly manufactured goat cheese, fromRoccadaspide PGI sweet chestnuts to the Park’shoney. Wine-producing farms and oil millsproduce precious supplements to Cilento’s cuisine,which is partly influenced by Lucan cuisine. SalaConsilina’s traditional meals are broccoli andpolenta, chips and dried peppers, lagane andchickpeas (from Cicerale) and cakes such as friedsweet gnocchi and cuccìja.

• Cilento’s white figA DOP specialty from seasidehills. This extremely sweet fig is dried and usually served natural or stuffed.

• Olive tree grovesThe local landscapes is peppered with centuries-old olive tree groves. Here olive oilis DOP.

The king of Cilento’s salamisAmong Cilento’s salamis, Gioi’s brawn deservesa place of honor. Extra-fine-grained pork is pressedwith a very white piece of lard in the middle toenhance its flavour and fragrance.Stuffed into a swine bowel, it is usually slicedthin to better appreciate its colour and delicatetaste. It’s a product which has been long includedamong Campania’s traditional foods.

The “cruschi”Some types of red sweet peppers are hung by theirstalks and sun-dried. Fried in oil, they have to becrunchy, “cruschi” in dialect, to be used in manylocal recipes.

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Looking from Sala Consilina the land appearsculturally and naturally rich everywhere you turn.Teggiano, the most important historical centre, isto be found a little more Southward. The NormanCastle suggestively reminds of history, while theCustoms and Traditions Museum is a speakinganthropological document. Again in Teggiano, inthe Herbs Museum with Viridarium you canchronicle the history of natural medicine. In Padula,the wonderful 14th-century charterhouse with itsvaluable architectures hosts art works and old

Padula’s CharterhouseDeclared a UNESCO Human Heritage site, it’s one of the oldestmonasteries in Europe. Founded in the 14th century, it was linkedto Montevergine Abbey in Irpinia and used to host a Carthusiancommunity which determined the architectural organization. It hostsWestern Lucania Provincial Archaeological Museum, holding findingsfrom Sala Consilina, art collections and other testimonies of its longhistory. It has the largest cloister in the world.

Saint John’s BaptisteryIn Sala Consilina, Saint John’sBaptistery was founded in the 4thcentury by Pope Marcellus I.Located directly on a holyperennial spring, baptisms byimmersion used to beadministered. A Church dedicatedto the Baptist arose from its ruinsin the 12th century.

archives. In the interesting historical centre ofPertosa, you may be fascinated by the karst cavesinhabited since the New Stone Age. Towards theborder with Basilicata, Atena Lucana recalls theLucan culture that here fuses with the Cilentan one.On the opposite side, there are the seaside resortsof Agropoli, Santa Maria di Castellabate andAcciaroli. Everywhere you will find excellent foodand warmth.

• An impregnable castleConsidered as such in the 17th

century, Teggiano’s Castle tookits current appearance in 1417thanks to the makeover by theSanseverino Princes. The annual event “Having dinner with Princess Costanza” recallsits ancient splendours.

A view of Vallo di Diano - Sala Consilina (SA)

Do not miss:

Padula• Saint Lawrence’s Charterhouse

Tel. +39 0975 [email protected]

Pertosa• The Angel’s Caves

www.grottedipertosa.it

Sala Consilina• Saint John’s Early-Christian Baptistery

Tel. +39 097523111

Teggiano• The Sanseverino Princes’ Castle• Vallo di Diano Customs and Traditions

Museumwww.teggianoturismo.it

One-day trip:

Sala Consilina - Mandria and CuponiForestsPadula - Saint Lawrence’s Charterhouse

Three-day trip:

Sala Consilina - Mandria and CuponiForestsAtena Lucana - Old Town CentrePertosa - The Angel’s CavesPadula - Saint Lawrence’s CharterhouseTeggiano - The Sanseverino Princes’ Castle,Vallo di Diano Customs and TraditionsMuseum and Old Town Centre


• Vallo di Diano• Pertosa’s Caves• Mount Balzata’s Top• One-day trip

Tastes and flavours:

• Cacio Ricotta• Caciocavallo Silano Dop• Legumes• Honey• Buffalo’s Mozzarella DOP• Salerno Hills’ Extra-Virgin Olive

Oil DOP• Gioi’s brawn• Cilento’s DOC wines

Events:

Sala Consilina - Arts, crafts and mores(August)Teggiano - Having dinner with PrincessCostanza (August)Padula - Mountain Red Potato Festival(August)Padula - A-thousand-eggs omelette (August)






LAG - Vallo di DianoViale Certosa84034 Padula (Sa)[email protected]

Sala Consilina Town HallVia Mezzacapo 4484036 Sala Consilina (SA)Tel. +39 0975 525211Fax +39 0975 525268www.comune.sala-consilina.salerno.it

Pro Loco Sala ConsilinaTel. e Fax +39 097523111

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CERRETA COGNOLEand VESOLOForests

• Green lively galleries

• Beyond the treetops, rapaciousbirds spread their wings

• Fresh pasta and vegetables, amix of taste and flavour

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How to get there:

Cerreta Cognole ForestFrom Rome: A1 NA-MI motorwaydirection Naples, on to the A30direction Salerno and then A3direction Reggio Calabria, exitBuonabitacolo, directionMontesano sulla Marcellana

from Reggio Calabria: A30motorway direction Salerno, exitBuonabitacolo, directionMontesano sulla Marcellana.

Few kilometers away from Teggiano and Padula,on a mountain territory which represents thebiggest forest part of the Vallo di Diano, the townof Montesano sulla Marcellana hosts the Cerreta-Cognole state-owned forest, one of the mostinteresting in Southern Italy for the protectionof endangered fauna and flora. Among the forestsof the Salerno province, Cerreta also has afascinating history, linked to the nearby SaintLawrence’s Charterhouse in Padula and evenlong before, to the millenarian Badia of Cavadei Tirreni. Situated on one of the mountains ofthe Maddalena range, between the Campaniaand Basilicata regions, the forest enjoys theproximity of the Calore river and the presenceof karst waters. It features a breeding farm forthe repopulation of deers, who were very oftenseen on Mount Cervati long ago, as the nameand the presence on the town of Sanza’s coatof arms seem to say. In Cerreta-Cognole youmight find, along with the forest trees, shrubsand chestnuts, even other endangered animalspecies such as barbastelle, a very rare bat, somewolves and several species of woodpeckers.

• The Breeding Center, born todefend the soil and the trees from the overload due to the wild pasturing of animals, is divided in four big precincts and is a main attraction for visitors, who can observe thewild fauna from a close range:for example deer, roes and wildboars.

Identity CardName: Cerreta Cognole forest

Location:

• Sanza (SA)• Montesano sulla Marcellana (SA)




• beech, hop hornbeam, maple, service tree, fraxinus, chestnut, blackthorn, downy oak, Aleppo pine, mistletoe.

Animal species:

• woodpecker, woodcock, quail, blackbird; • wild boar, deer, roe, buck, moufflon, wolf.


• chestnuts, mushrooms, truffles, forest fruits,plants.

Facilities:

• equipped picnic areas, State ForestryCorps Refuge.

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In the forestDidactic walks, scientific observation of thewild fauna and flora, family or specializedexcursions are the main activities of Cerreta-Cognole. Trekkers and bikers can enjoy 15kilometers of internal viability but it’s alsonice to stop by and enjoy the sources whilelistening to the forest voices.

The wood’s identityStrategically close to the A3 freeway, Cerreta-Cognole forest’s extension is of about 830 ha,and the heights range from 500 to 700 metresabove sea level. Topped by a forest of turkey oaks,along with hornbeams, chestnuts and fraxinus,Cerreta is separated by the Cognole forest, on theSanza territory, by an affluent of the Calore river.There are several springs, among which areCaprile, Salice, Sauco and other small creekswhich bar a good amount of water. Shrubs like

mistletoe, holm, chestnut, broom, dogwood,heather, holly and blackthorn are dense, whilethe soil bears traces of the presence of animalspecies such as wild boars, moufflons, deer, roes,bucks which are currently taken to breedingcenters in order to limit the damages to thevegetation an guaranteeing the repopulation.

The Cerreta plant farmDivided in two big land plots, the forest’s ownplant farm, along with two main houses anda manure, breeds little plants and takes partin the regional plan for the conservation ofthe walnut and chestnut germoplasm. Thecenter’s didactic activity is notable, and it alsocooperates with the local schools.

• In the wood, equipped picnicareas welcome the visitors, often attracted by the easy access and the environmentalaspects that the forest has. Equipped with tables and benches, the areas are the idealplaces of rest between an activity and another.

The Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Parkis a reality made of scenarios where the naturehas such important tasks, that it bears thenecessity to find highly protected areas to favormen’s respect for the very important naturalequilibrium. The state-owned Vesolo Forest,situated in Sanza and very close to the Cerreta-Cognole Forest in Southern Campania, formsa big extension of green spaces whose forestsremind of remote times when the peaks hostingthese forests acquired that aspect. Wintertransforms the treetops in ice needleworks,while summer paints the slopes of the Nuovoand Serritore mountains in green, as well as thebeech and birch trees. The soil, whose natureis essentially karst, creates terraced valleyswhich were used until not long ago. Here theman-nature interaction is still seen on the signsthat man’s activity has left in and out of theforest, and is necessary for the wild animalswho are in the process of being reinstalled there.

Identity CardName: Vesolo forest

Location:

• Sanza (SA)




• black pine, maple, hazel, wild pear,wild apple, dogwood, fern, bramble,juniper, red oak, walnut, cherry, birch.

Animal species:

• buzzard, golden eagle, woodcock, woodpecker;

• wild boar, wolf.


• chestnuts, mushrooms, truffles, forest fruits,plants.

Facilities:

• picnic equipped area, State ForestryCorps Refuge

• Evey year in October, Vesolo recalls visitors for the Chestnutfestival, whose quality here issurprisingly high. The black woodpecker has its habitat inthe forest, which makes up a very important population in the Cilento area.

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In the forestThe Vesolo forest is equipped for familymoments of full immersion in the nature,searching for forest fruits or for a picnicamong the trees. Trekkers can find severalpaths and can take excursions to the naturalterritorial attractions such as the spectacularkarst ponor.

The wood’s identityVesolo Forest, which stands entirely as part of thetown of Sanza, has got a surface of about 780 ha,and is the object of special naturalistic studiesbecause of phenomena such as the thermicinversion in the karst valleys and the endemicarboreal species such as the maple and the alder,and the birch forests in the Tasso valley. Even ifpart of the surface is not effectively covered withforests, from the lowest heights you might findhornbeams, hop hornbeams, holm oaks and turkey

oaks. Also present in the area are wild apple andwild pear trees, hazel, blackthorn, broom and mostof all ferns, which creates a real sort of grass. Goingtowards Monte Nuovo at about 1000 metres abovethe sea level, you might find chestnut trees andsmall woods of birch, poplar, maple, alder, beechand red oak, along with walnut and wild cherry.Birds are abundant and among the mammals, thenoctule is easily found.

The Vallevona ponorAround the height of 1000 metres in Sanza,part of the Cervati mountains area, karstwaters which are also the sources of theBussento river form the Vallevona‘affonnaturo’, a famous place for trekkersand bikers. A funnel of calcareous rocks thatcan be visited in summer by means of atunnel that goes to a seasonal lake.

How to get there:

Vesolo Forestfrom Rome: A1 motorwaydirection Naples, then on the A30direction Salerno and the A3direction Reggio Calabria, exitBuonabitacolo direction Sanza.

from Reggio Calabria: A30motorway direction Salerno, exitBuonabitacolo directionSanza.

The landSanza and Montesano sulla Marcellana are situatedon the Maddalena range and are united by thecommon forest heritage, at the center of historicalLucania. Faith keeps the territory together; it is livedas a true feeling that becomes religious identity.Deeply linked to the human reality and to thepeople’s dignity, Cilentan religiosity has generatedworship places that are real works of art. The pathsof faith become a journey in the local popularculture.

One of the possibilities of a journey to Vallo diDiano is to discover these lands by tasting itsfoods. A tradition of tastes, made of typical andlocal foods which have got common links to foodsof other regions, that the visitor can enjoybecoming a real gourmet. In these places it is infact impossible to resist the call of dairy productssuch as the Cervati and Centaurino ‘treccia’cheese. The DOP distinctive olive oil of Cilentanhills is perfect for fresh pastas such as cavatelliand fusilli, which often go along the Cilentanvegetables. It is also possible to find young lamband goat meats, and vegetables as a side dish.Typical sweets and desserts are the Christmas‘canestrieddi’ , the honey-covered Ghibetelle andthe Pastorelle with chestnut cream.

PGI Roccadaspide sweet chestnutsHistorically part of the territorial gastronomy, astested in documents of the Cava Abbey that dateback to the eleventh century, the Roccadaspidesweet chestnut owes its fame to the intuition ofBasilian monks who diffused them into the Cilentoregion. The modern chestnut is owed to newjoints of the nineteenth century, and has gotorganoleptic characteristics which enhance therequest of the food industry. Chestnuts can in factbe easily found as marron glacés, marmalades,rum-flavoured chestnuts and purée.

The Cervati and Ventaurinotreccia cheese

An intertwined, slightly sourish, dry and compactmozzarella cheese is produced from a noble milkin Sanza and other towns, and is often kept insubtle myrtle branches. The myrtle essences alsogive it a special perfume; it is also celebrated ina local festival and it is part of the Slow Foodprotection.

Local typical foods• Cheeses

Fresh or dried DOP CaciocavalloSilano and pecorino cheeses arevery tasty and they form part ofthe ingredients of the Tasca, theEaster ‘pizza chiena’.

• Olive oilThe DOP Cilento olive oil makes even a simple bruschetta extremely special,whether it be alone or with thelocal small tomatoes.

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Sanza and Montesano sulla Marcellana findthemselves in a strategic position to reach art andhistory relevant places such as Padula’sCharterhouse or the town of Teggiano, Pertosa’scaves and archaeological sites such as Velia andAscea, and offer ideal touristic journeys which canbe quite interesting. In Sanza you might find theAssunta church, the medieval tower, the Cippo diPisacane, and the Holy Mother of Snow Chapelon Mount Cervati, along with perennial snows.Montesano sulla Marcellana hosts the Saint Anne’s

Montesano thermal complexMontesano is a place of waters, which features Spigno and Magornowinter lakes at heights between 800 and 1000 meters above sealevel, and oligomineral springs being bottled in the Contrada Ponteneighbourhood. They are highly beneficial because of theircomposition, and they are part of a modern thermal complex thatmight be able to cure several illnesses. It is situated at the very centerof a big park and is equipped for inhalations, mud therapy,hydromassages and well-being programmes for the personal care.

Saint Anne’s Cathedralin MontesanoBuilt in 1954 thanks to FilippoGagliardi and his money earnedduring many years in Venezuela,the church was built in the Italiangothic style and in reinforcedconcrete, and appears balancedand harmonious, with two tallbell towers dominating the squareand the whole town.

Cathedral, which bears the medieval feeling of itshistorical center, as well as the ruins of the chapelof Saint Sophia and the City Museum that keepstraces of the popular tradition. Outside the city, itis easy to find excellent works of art in the CadossaAbbey and the Saint Michael’s Cave, not far awayfrom Montesano thermal complex. There are severalhotels and bed&breakfasts in the area which offerwell-being packages, as well as country housesand quality traditional gastronomy.

• Medieval TowerThe still standing fifteenth-century bell tower of the nowgone San Martino a Sanza Church is now also used as aclocktower.

• Cippo di PisacaneDedicated to the hero that washead of ‘300 young and strong man’ and who died in Sanza in 1857 during the repression from the Bourbons.

Panoramic view - Sanza (SA)

Do not miss:

Montesano sulla Marcellana• Saint Stephen’s Springs• Montesano sulla Marcellata

City Museumwww.museocivicomontesano.it

Padula• Saint Lawrence’s Charterhouse

Tel. +39 0975 778549www.comune.padula.sa.it

Sala Consilina• Saint John’s Early-Christian

BaptisteryTel. +39 097523111

Teggiano• The Sanseverino Princes’ Castle• Vallo di Diano Customs and

Traditions Museumwww.teggianoturismo.it

One-day trip:

Montesano sulla Marcellana - Cerreta ForestSanza - Cognole and VesoloPadula - Saint Lawrence’s Charterhouse

Viaggiatori per tre giorni

Montesano sulla Marcellana - Cerreta ForestSanza - Cognole and VesoloPadula - Saint Lawrence’s CharterhouseTeggiano - The Sanseverino Princes’ Castle,Vallo di Diano Customs and TraditionsMuseum and the old town centreAtena Lucana - Old town centerVelia - Archaeological Park


• Vallevona ponor• Mount Cervati

Tastes and flavors

• DOP Caciocavallo Silano• PGI Roccadaspide sweet chestnut• Honey• DOP Cilento Extra-Virgin Olive Oil• Cervati and Centaurino treccia cheeses• DOC Cilento wines

Events

Montesano sulla Marcellana - Hill Festival(August)Novi Velia - Muzzarella ‘nt ‘a MurteddaFestival (August)Sala Consilina - Arts, Crafts and Mores(August)Sanza - Chestnut Festival (October)Teggiano - Having dinner with PrincessCostanza (August)Padula - A-thousand-eggs omelette (August)






LAG - Vallo di DianoViale Certosa84034 Padula (Sa)[email protected]

Montesano sulla Marcellana Town HallPiazza Filippo Gagliardi, 184033 Montesano Sulla Marcellana (SA)Tel. +39 0975 861019Fax +39 0975 [email protected]

Pro Loco di Montesano sulla MarcellanaTel. +39 0975 865211

Sanza Town HallPiazza XXIV Maggio, 184030 Sanza (SA)Tel. +39 0975 322536 / +39 0975 [email protected]

Pro Loco di [email protected]

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