UNESCO SITES: Southern Italy
Did you know, Italy holds the record for the most UNESCO heritage sites in one country? In February 2024, we relocated to Naples, Italy and we will be living here for the next three years. Sooooo my ultimate goal before we move again is to visit every single one of the 53 cultural sites (the 6 natural will be a bonus).
Each time I visit a UNESCO site I will provide very minimal details, useful google pins and some photos. Logistically I am organizing the UNESCO sites by location of Northwest, Northeast, Central and Southern, Italy.
These alphabetically ordered regions will have the UNESCO site name in pink and quick details (please note these details could change so please verify with the websites provided) in order for you to easily visit and check another historical site off your own list too! I will eventually upload the detailed adventures to my Guides & Itineraries section under Travel, where you will be able to download them, get inspired and copy each adventure.
I cannot wait to share all these fun adventures with everyone and as always, please reach out to me if you have any questions or want me to share some more information on how to visit a specific UNESCO site.
APULIA (PUGLIA) REGION
CASTEL DEL MONTE
DESIGNATED UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE: 1996
A 13th-century castle known for its unique octagonal design and historical significance. Built by Emperor Frederick II, the fortress stands at a height of over 500 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside
LOCATION: SS 170, 76123 Andria BT. 2.5 hour drive east of Naples, Italy.
PARKING: Yes, but get there early to snag a spot. €5 at the bottom of the hill.
HOURS: Everyday 10AM-6PM
FEE: €7 per adult
BONUS: Make a weekend trip out of this by stopping at the Sanctuary of San Michele and spending the night somewhere in the Bari area (we stayed in Trani and it was beautiful)
Incredible detail and hidden treasures throughout this unique castle
Basilica Santuario di San Michele Arcangelo
DESIGNATED UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE: 2011
A significant Roman Catholic shrine located on Mount Gargano. A part of the Logobards in Italy and commonly known as the Sanctuary of Monte Sant'Angelo. Carved within a cave, it is recognized as the oldest shrine in Western Europe dedicated to the Archangel Michael and has been a crucial pilgrimage site since the early Middle Ages.
LOCATION: Via Reale Basilica, 127, 71037 Monte Sant'Angelo FG 3 hour drive east of Naples
PARKING: Yes, there is designated parking for €3 a short walking distance to the church, or you can find local street parking.
HOURS: Everyday 7:30AM-12:30PM and then 2:30-6PM
FEE: €5 per adult
BONUS: Take time to walk around this adorable town, have lunch and soak up the incredible views. Make weekend trip out of it by spending the night somewhere in the Bari area (we stayed in Trani and it was beautiful). Then wake up in the morning to visit UNESCO site Castel del Monte.
CAMPANIA REGION
PARCO ARCHEOLOGICO DI VELIA
DESIGNATED UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE: 1998
The site showcases a blend of Greek and Roman architecture, with notable structures including ancient fortifications. It has a historical significance due to it’s well-preserved ruins that reflect the cultural exchange between Greek and Roman civilizations.
LOCATION: 1 Piazza Amedeo Mauiri, 84046 Ascea. 2.5 hour drive south of Naples, Italy.
PARKING: Yes, a dirt lot right next to the entrance
HOURS: Everyday 8:30AM-6:30PM
FEE: Free with Campania Arte Card or €15 (which also gives access to Paestum)
BONUS: If you want to stop and have a great lunch. Ristorante Porta Rosa next door is delicious. They are open until 2:30PM
Various photos from the ruins of Velia. There is a bit of a walk up to the tower so be prepared for that. It was a cloudy day, but on a clear day one could absolutely see a lot of the mountains and water views.
PARCO ARCHEOLOGICO DI PAESTUM
DESIGNATED UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE: 1998
Founded around 600 BCE by Greek colonists this city flourished as a major cultural, commercial and political center for about two centuries. With over 120 hectares (though only 25 hectares have been excavated) one can walk the park to see the well-preserved ancient Greek temples and rich history.
LOCATION: Via Magna Graecia, 919, 84047 Capaccio Paestum 2 hour drive south of Naples, Italy.
PARKING: Yes, there are paid parking lots near the entrance. We parked here for €5
HOURS: Everyday 8:30AM-7:30PM
FEE: Free with Campania Arte Card or €15 (which also gives access to Velia)
BONUS: Make a day trip out of it and Combine this stop with Parco Archelogico di Velia + a stop at the Tenuta Vannulo (Buffalo Farm).
Wandering around these ruins we felt like we were in Greece - not Italy!
SANTA SOFIA COMPLEX
DESIGNATED UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE: 2011
It exemplifies the architectural and cultural legacy of the Lombards during their rule in Italy from the 6th to the 8th centuries. This impressive architectural complex of monasteries, temples and fortresses is a symbol of Longobard’s power, art and culture influence.
LOCATION: Piazza Santa Sofia, 82100 Benevento. 11 hour drive northeast of Naples, Italy
PARKING: There are parking lots in the city. Park in blue lines only.
CHURCH HOURS: TUE-WED 8AM-12PM & 4:00-6:30PM, THU-SUN 9AM-6:30PM
FEE: €6 purchased at Museo del Sannino (includes other museums in the city).
BONUS STOPS IN BENEVENTO: Benevento is Less touristy than other parts of nearby Naples and the Amalfi Coast, is a Medieval city, boasting with ancient Roman architecture and breathtaking scenery. Take some time to get lost, walk around and visit all the historical landmarks, museums, monuments and parks this city has to offer. Benevento has a legacy of witchcraft and is famous for the production of its trademark liqueur, Strega (means witch in Italian) so don’t forget to visit their main store to buy some goodies.
A stop at the Strega Store and visiting the Roman Theatre
DOWNLOAD MY FREE BENEVENTO WALKING TOUR HERE
I will continue to post each UNESCO visit and Guides & Itineraries for each city! Stay tuned to this blog for all the adventure updates throughout Italy.