Nestled between the hills and the coast of the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, Pollica is a charming village that preserves the purity of ancient architecture and a millenary historical tradition. The town is situated on the slopes of the Mulino a Vento hill, offering a spectacular view of the Gulf of Palinuro. The first historical mention of the village dates back to 1113.
Its hamlets, Acciaroli and Pioppi, are famous seaside destinations that have received the Blue Flag of Europe for over a decade, a recognition for the quality of their waters and excellent tourism services. These locations are perfect for those seeking the combination of crystal-clear sea, history, and tradition.
The Hamlets of Pollica
Acciaroli
Acciaroli is the most renowned hamlet of Pollica, awarded the Blue Flag of Europe for over a decade due to its crystal-clear waters. The picturesque fishing village, with its charming port and traditional alleys, is a perfect example of Cilento’s coastal life. According to some accounts, Ernest Hemingway was inspired by Acciaroli for his famous novel The Old Man and the Sea.
Pioppi
Pioppi is famous as the birthplace of the Mediterranean Diet, studied and promoted by biologist Ancel Keys, who lived here for over 40 years. In addition to its golden beaches, the hamlet hosts the Living Sea Museum, located in Palazzo Vinciprova, which explores marine biodiversity and the connection between humans and the sea.
What to See in Pollica
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Castello Capano (1290): A massive structure with a square tower over three levels. The castle retains its original spaces, including the oil mill, stables, and guard posts. According to tradition, Sant'Alfonso De' Liguori stayed here and gathered testimonies on ancient Cilento customs.
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Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie (1610): Featuring a single nave church adorned with stucco decorations and a coffered wooden ceiling, it houses valuable paintings by Matteo Cilento and a 17th-century wooden choir.
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Church of San Pietro (1524): The oldest in the village, boasting a fascinating polychrome marble altar and a stone stoup.
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Palazzo Vinciprova: A baroque building with crenellated towers, home to the Living Sea Museum, an information center on marine ecosystems.
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Franciscan Convent and Convent of Madonna di Costantinopoli.
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Monte Stella and Bosco San Zaccaria forests: Ideal for hiking and nature exploration.
History of Pollica
The name Pollica derives from the Greek “pollai oikiai”, meaning “many houses”. The village first appeared in a 1113 document in which Torgisio II Sanseverino donated lands to the Badia di Cava. By the late 13th century, the fief was under the D’Alemagna family, who later sold it to the Capano family of Rocca Cilento. Holding the title of Princes, the Capano ruled until 1795, when the fief was inherited by the De Liguoro family. Pollica remained under their control until feudalism was abolished in 1806.
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