Velia

Velia, historically known as Elea, is a historic town and archaeological site in southern Italy. It is situated on the Tyrrhenian coast in the Cilento area, within the municipality of Ascea in the province of Salerno, Campania. The site lies within Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park and is set against a backdrop of coastal and rural landscapes.

In antiquity, Elea was a Greek colony founded in the 7th–6th century BCE by settlers from Phocaea. It later became known as Velia in Latin and medieval Italian. The town is notable as the cradle of the Eleatic School of philosophy, with figures such as Parmenides and Zeno of Elea among its most famous inhabitants. Under Roman rule, Elea remained inhabited and continued to function as a regional center, though its prominence declined over time.

The modern hamlet of Velia preserves an extensive archaeological site that includes remnants of ancient fortifications, public buildings, and the urban layout from the Greek and Roman periods. The Velia Archaeological Park is a focal point for visitors, complemented by a local museum that houses artifacts recovered from the area and provides context for the site’s historical layers.

Today Velia is a coastal village that forms part of Ascea. It attracts visitors with its beaches, archaeological heritage, and surrounding rural landscapes. The local economy is centered on tourism, agriculture (notably olive oil and wine), and small-scale services. The area is also valued for its scenic Cilento coastline and for its historical connection to classical philosophy through Elea's legacy.