Located at approximately 2 hours drive from Ravello, a place of myth and legend, originally called Poseidonia. Stunning architecture and breathtaking views make it an unmissable day out.

Paestum was founded by the Greeks around 600 b.c. near the mouth of the river Sele. It was called Poseidonia in honour of Poseidon, the God of the sea (Neptune for the Romans), of that sea they had crossed under his divine protection and had been the source of their prosperity. The Etruscan influence on the areas had considerably decreased, so Poseidonia took advantage and dominated the whole area. Later on, on the 510 b.c., Sybaris too was completely destroyed, and Poseidonia flourished economically and politically, in spite of the opposition of other colonies.

Most probably many Sybarites that had left their destroyed town and were welcomed in Poseidonia, promoted the commercial activities of the colony with their richer experience and initiatives. During such a flourishing period three temples were built, the Basilica, the Temples of Poseidon and Ceres,  and many works of art such as the incomparable Greek fresco of the Diver’s tomb (480 b.c.). 
The magnificence of this colony lead the Lucans, an Italic inland population, to try to conquer it. In about 400 b.c. they occupied it and changed its name in Paistom. Their influence on the commercial and cultural activities of the colony was not at all negative, as numerous tombs containing interesting frescoes and objects clearly show. The Lucans ruled it till 273 b.c., when it became a Roman colony and was called Paestum. The Romans enriched the city with large buildings, among which there are the portico of the Forum, the thermae, the Amphitheatre.

Contact our Concierge to book an excursion to Paestum with private driver.