ITALY: 59 UNESCO SITES
Did you know, Italy holds the record for the most UNESCO heritage sites in the world? 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).
I will blog each UNESCO site I visit providing very minimal details, useful google pins and some photos. I have put each region under it’s location in Northern, Central or Southern, Italy. These alphabetically ordered regions will have the UNESCO site name in pink and the quick details (please note these details could change so please verify with the websites provided) in order for you to easily visit it and check another historical site off your own list as well. 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.
SOUTHERN ITALY:
CAMPANIA REGION
SCAVI DI VELIA (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.
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.