San Mauro Cilento: A Village of History, Culture, and Nature
San Mauro Cilento is a charming hilltop village in the heart of the Cilento National Park, offering breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Divided into Casalsoprano and Casalsottano, the village preserves the essence of its medieval past, with narrow alleys, historic stone houses, and a serene atmosphere. The gentle slopes of its hills are adorned with centuries-old olive trees, producing high-quality extra virgin olive oil known throughout the region.
A more recent settlement, Marina di Mezzatorre, has developed along the coast, serving as a picturesque seaside retreat for visitors looking to enjoy both the sea and the tranquility of the Cilento hills.
The Authentic Cilento Experience
San Mauro Cilento is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, nature, and authentic local traditions. Whether strolling through its charming alleys, visiting its historical landmarks, or tasting its renowned olive oil, visitors are sure to experience the essence of true Cilento life. With its unique combination of mountain tranquility and coastal beauty, San Mauro Cilento remains one of the region’s best-kept secrets.
What to See in San Mauro Cilento
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Museum-Library "Eleusa" – A cultural treasure trove housing ancient manuscripts, archaeological finds, and relics of local religious history.
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Chiesa Madre (Mother Church) – Dating back to the 12th century, this church is home to a 16th-century holy water stoup and a 15th-century wooden choir. It also preserves the presence of Benedictine monks, who once influenced the village’s religious traditions.
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Chapel of San Nicola – A small yet historically significant chapel with four arches that once marked the entrance to the village.
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Stone Cross (18th Century) – A notable religious symbol standing as a reminder of past centuries.
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Chapel of the Holy Spirit (15th Century) – One of the oldest chapels in the area, offering a glimpse into medieval religious practices.
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Chapel of Our Lady of Sala (17th Century) – A serene place for reflection and devotion.
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Palace of the Byzantine Paleologo Princes (15th Century) – A historical landmark that highlights the village’s deep connections to Byzantine heritage.
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Water Mills – Remnants of ancient local craftsmanship, showcasing the ingenuity of past generations.
The History of San Mauro Cilento
The origins of San Mauro Cilento trace back to 1092, yet archaeological finds at Tempa del Monaco suggest habitation as early as the 5th–4th centuries BC, linking the village to the fortified settlement of Monte Stella.
In medieval times, the settlement was part of the Casale di San Mauro del Cilento, a rural community that grew under Lombard rule and later flourished with the arrival of Italo-Greek monks in the 9th century. During the 11th century, it came under the control of the Abbey of Cava de’ Tirreni, leading to an era of agricultural and religious development.
By the 15th century, San Mauro Cilento saw an influx of Greek refugees, who had fled the fall of Constantinople in 1453. The village's connection to Byzantine royalty is evident in its architecture and heritage, particularly through the presence of Ruggero Paleologo, a descendant of the Byzantine imperial family.
Over the centuries, San Mauro Cilento changed hands among noble families, including the Sanseverino, who ruled until their fall in 1552, followed by a series of feudal lords until the abolition of feudalism in the 19th century.
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