We have shared some stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites in as well as Central Italy. Here are seven more.
Amalfi Coast, Campania
The has one of the most spectacular views in Italy. Anyone who has driven the 25-mile stretch along the Mediterranean coast can attest to that. It is easy to see why this popular summer destination is so popular. With its houses perched on the cliff tops, and the amazing emerald green color of the sea, it is easy understand why. You should also try the famous limoncello, which is made from huge lemons that were grown in this region.
Royal Palace of Caserta. Campania
Luigi Vanitelli designed the Palace of Caserta in 1752 to serve as a residence for the Bourbon King of Naples. It is said that it rivals Versailles. The Palace is impressive, but the gardens are breathtaking.
It’s an amazing experience to walk along the promenade. There will be many impressive fountains along the way. If you reach the end of the 2.5-mile stretch, you’ll be amazed by the Grand Cascade. You will find this incredible Palace if you wander off the beaten track.
The Trulli d’Alberobello, Puglia
The trulli, one of the most striking and unique forms of Italian domestic architecture, are remarkable examples of what is known as drywall construction without mortar. They are made from roughly-worked limestone blocks and are stacked one upon the other. Most often, they have a cone-shaped roof.
The trulli are well-known for their unusual shape and construction. However, they were also designed to be quickly demolished and rebuilt. Although the exact origins of the trulli are not known, it is believed that they were created as a clever way to avoid tax. In order to avoid having to pay taxes on wealthy property owners, the trulli were homes built by farmers. Some farmers could build a trullo with one stone, according to legends.
Castel del Monte, Puglia
Castel del Monte offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Although there are some disputes about its purpose, the octagonal shape and eight octagonal towers that enhance its shape make it a remarkable structure. It was built by Frederick II, a Holy Roman Emperor, King of Sicily in 1240. Frederick II, a Holy Roman Emperor and King of Sicily, thought it was a hunting lodge. His love of falconry and nature led him to write “The Art of Hunting with Birds”.
The Sassi de Matera, Basilicata
You will be able to believe you are back in the past when you see this place. The Sassi, an ancient district in Matera, where dwellings were carved into rocks, are the backdrop to Mel Gibson’s film “The Passion of The Christ”. It will surprise you to learn that Matera was once called the “Shame of Italy” during the 1950s because of its terrible living conditions. Since 1993, however, there have been efforts to restore the caves.
Archaelogical Area in Agrigento, Sicily
This area is also known as the Valley of the Temples and boasts the magnificent temples of the ancient Akragas settlement founded in 591 B.C. by Greek colonists. These temples, which were built between 6th and 5th centuries BC, are located on a ridge and not a valley. The Temple of Concordia is one of the temples that you’ll find here. It is a Doric temple with incredible preservation, which some claim is better than the Parthenon at Athens.
Villa Romana del Casale, Sicily
It was probably built for a Roman governor in 4th century, rather than a villa from the 1st century. The mosaics are in great condition. The impressive mosaics are located in the countryside just outside of . They depict a variety scenes, including a great hunt in which soldiers load wild animals onto boats and women in bikinis (yes, that’s right!) as well as mythological scenes. This luxurious villa was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site by 1997. It had a thermal bath complex and courtyards. Private rooms were also available.
