Cultural Hub - Greek Temples and Excavated Towns, Tomato Fields and Lonely Beaches.
The Gulf of Naples, the Amalfi and Positano Coasts, and Mount Vesuvius have always attracted honeymooners to the region, while those interested in history and culture can visit the remains of Greek-Doric temples in Paestum and the ancient city of Pompeii. The Normans and the German Hohenstaufen Dynasty, as well as the oriental Byzantine culture, heavily influenced the medieval forts and cathedrals in Puglia. There are masterpieces of Puglian-Romantic church architecture to be found in Bari, Bitonto, Trani and Troia. An increasing number of tourists, both native and foreign, are finally making their way into southern Italy and Puglia, thanks to the improved infrastructure. The toe and heel of Italy’s boot are fertile and wide; this is Italy’s granary and vegetable patch, with quaint houses and the masserie, old fortified farms, some of which have been converted into comfortable hotels. The mountainous Basilicata region is a real experience, with tomato, melon, and strawberry fields running all the way to the Ionic seaside. The region shares the Monte Pollino massif with the raw Calabrian region in the South. Today it is a nature reserve and a great area for hikers. The coasts of Catania, the Basilicata, and Calabria are cluttered with bathing resorts, but there is an increasing number of clean and beautiful holiday camps being advertised by discerning holiday operators. The Gulf of Maratea, the Cilento Nature Park, and the charming Amalfi Coast are especially appealing, as is fascinating and lively Naples.
