Castellabate

Castellabate is a town and comune in the province of Salerno, in the Campania region of southern Italy. It lies on the Cilento coast, between Agropoli and Acciaroli, and is part of the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park. The municipality includes the historic hill town of Castellabate and the seaside frazioni of Santa Maria and San Marco.

Geography and features: The hill town overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea and is known for its narrow, whitewashed lanes and preserved medieval fortifications. The coastal area around Santa Maria features beaches and the offshore island of Licosa near Punta Licosa, a popular area for boat trips and nature watching. The territory blends hillside villages with coastal landscapes.

History: Castellabate has medieval origins and developed around a fortress that protected the settlement. The old center contains historic churches and stone houses that reflect traditional Cilentan architecture. Over the centuries the area was part of various feudal dominions before becoming part of the Kingdom of Naples.

Economy and culture: Tourism is a major activity, especially in the summer, supported by local agriculture (olive oil and wine) and fishing in the coastal zones. The area preserves traditional Cilentan culture, including rural gastronomy and religious and maritime festivities.

UNESCO and protection: Castellabate lies within the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, which is part of the Cilento coast and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.