Pompeii and Salerno: How Far are They
Located in the region of Campania in central Italy, both the ancient city of Pompeii and the modern city of Salerno are fundamental attractions that tourists visit every year.
Pompeii experienced the infamy of its destruction in the year 79CE, when Vesuvius violently erupted engulfing the city in ashes and thick mud. The remains of the once thriving city were only discovered some 1,500 years later, in the late 18th century, something that remains a mystery to historians.
Unlike its ruined neighbor, the city of Salerno still stands as an attempt to preserve centuries of history and culture. According to archaeological records, the area was first settled by Greeks close to the 8th century BCE, and has been occupied ever since. The port city is perhaps best known for its stunning medieval castle, the Castello di Arechi, as well as for its many historical churches, theaters and parks.
One of the great questions visitors to the region have is, how far is Pompeii from Salerno? According to experts from the history department of the University of Salerno, the approximate distance between the two cities is around forty kilometers.
The roads that connect the two sites are easy to use and are well maintained, meaning that one could get from one point to the other in roughly an hour or less by car. Also, both Salerno and Pompeii offer a wide range of public transport services that include both rail and bus.
The landscapes and views between the two cities are wonderful. The region encompassed by the cities is home to some of the world’s most stunning views, from the Amalfi coast to the many vineyards and olive groves that are spread around the area. It is truly a paradise for any traveler.
In addition to the physical distance between the two cities, the atmosphere that you can encounter in each one is quite different.
Pompeii is a must-see destination for anyone who loves to explore the ancient world and to understand what life was like back then. Visitors come to see the partially reconstructed architecture and homes, while getting a better grasp of the events that led to its downfall. Also, the vast site allows its visitors to wander around and to truly access their sense of history and antiquity.
On the other hand, Salerno still retains its unique love of art and culture that is adequate to the modern world. A great example of this is the annual Christmas celebration of the Santa Lucia, the patron saint of Salerno, who miraculously saved the city from the pest in the year 1631, where more than 800 people mysteriously survived the illness.
Historical Attractions
One of the main attractions for visitors to Pompeii and Salerno is their historical significance.Many archaeological sites including the Baths of Regio, the Great Temple, the Stabian Baths, the House of the Faun, the Forum and the Wall of Naples are available for visitors to explore in the city of Pompeii.Without a doubt,Salerno boasts its own rich history with the Fusco Castle in the city centre,the San Matteo alTanagro Abbey,the historic city gates and the Santa Sofia Museum.Harnessing the beauty and power of nature,tourists can also explore Salerno’s La Vigna park where scholars carved a mausoleum as far back as the 8th century.An untouched oasis right in the heart of the city,it’s easy to escape any hustle and bustle and wander around the site’s shaded paths which were once home to ancient shrines and tombs.
Cuisine
As a result of Pompeii’s closeness to the sea from when it was founded until its destruction in 79CE, the city has been greatly influenced by its distant neighbours. The explosion caused by the eruption of Vesuvius killed thousands of people, but it also preserved a large variety of food that was being consumed at the time. This is why hard-boiled eggs, sea urchin, seabass and other seafood are staples in the region’s cuisine. Salerno, on the other hand, has its own specialities, one of the more popular being the Omelette al Limone. This particular Italian dish is made by mixing eggs, lemon and sugar. The flavors of this wonderful combination are unlike any other!
Revealing the Art of Pompeii and Salerno
When it comes to art, Pompeii and Salerno each have their share of treasures to explore. The ancient city of Pompeii offers visitors a selection of artwork and sculptures to explore, such as the frescoes in the Suburban Baths, the wall murals of the Casa dei Vettii and the sculptures of the Temple of Hercules. In Salerno, visitors can admire the murals and frescoes in the San Matteo al Tanagro Abbey, the paintings and sculptures of the Cathedral of Salerno and the works of art in the Scala Theater.
Getting Around
When traveling between cities, it is important to know your transport options in order to have a great time and still stay within the budget. Fortunately, both Salerno and Pompeii have several options. Tourists can choose from buses, trains, private cars, shared cars and even Taxis. All of these options are available throughout the region and can be easily accessed whether you are looking to get from one point to the other or to get around in the cities themselves.
Staying In Pompeii and Salerno
Perhaps one of the best parts of visiting either of these cities is choosing a place to stay. Tourists can opt for a luxurious hotel in the centre of Salerno or a comfortable stay in one of the many small, family owned hotels located near the city centre. For those visiting the ruins of Pompeii, several hostels are located near the site, allowing you to make the most of your visit without having to worry about where to sleep at night.
Events
The cities of Pompeii and Salerno offer tourists a large variety of events throughout the year. From music festivals to cultural excursions, such as the well known “Il Sogno di Partenope”, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities. Another important event is the annual “Luma Brick Festival” that takes place in May and is dedicated to the art of Lego. Those who want to explore the festivities and celebrations of Pompeii should visit during the month of August, when the city’s annual fetivales are celebrated.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Pompeii and Salerno provide tourists with an incredible range of attractions and experiences. From their historical significance and artwork to their wonderful cuisine and events, these two cities have something special to offer. Whether you are just looking for a quick break away from home or a more immersive experience, one thing is for sure: the distance between both cities is approximately forty kilometers, making them a great combination to visit in one day and to discover the beauty of Campania in all its glory.
