Alfano
Alfano: a small town surrounded by nature
Physical geography
Alfano is a municipality of 958 inhabitants located in the heart of Cilento, one of the most suggestive and unspoiled regions of Italy. The town is located at the foot of Mount Gelbison, inside the National Park of Cilento and Vallo di Diano, a protected area that encloses natural and cultural treasures of inestimable value.
The territory of the municipality is classified as zone 2 (medium seismicity) and climatic zone C, with 1369 degree-days.
Origins of the name
The name Alfano derives from the gentilic Alfius, or perhaps from the ancient Greek word Alpheus.
History
The first traces of Alfano date back to 1309, but it was only much later that the town took on its current form. Over the centuries, the municipality was a fiefdom of various noble families, including the Sanseverino, Carafa and Bernalla.
During the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, Alfano was part of the Laurito district and the Vallo district, while in the post-unitary period it became part of the Laurito district, belonging to the Vallo della Lucania district.
Symbols
The coat of arms of Alfano represents the letter A, in black on a golden background, surrounded by two red balls. The municipal flag is red and black with the image of the central coat of arms.
Monuments and places of interest
Alfano preserves some architectural beauties that tell its history and the Cilento tradition. Among these, the Church of San Nicola di Mira, which dates back to the thirteenth century, and the Baronial Palace Speranza, a noble building of the eighteenth century.
Society
The municipality of Alfano has a population of about 1000 inhabitants, of which 14 are foreign citizens. The majority of the population is of the Catholic Christian religion, and is served by the parish of San Nicola di Mira.
Infrastructure and transport
Alfano is crossed by the State Road 18 Tirrena Inferiore and the Provincial Road 197 Innesto SS 18-Alfano, which connects the municipality with the most important centers in the area.
Administration
The competences in the field of land defense are delegated to the Regional Basin Authority Sinistra Sele, while the management of the water cycle is entrusted to the Optimal Territorial Area.
Sport
Alfano has a municipal football field and a municipal swimming pool, which offers the opportunity to practice sports and relax during the hottest days of the year.
In conclusion, Alfano is a municipality of discreet but enchanting charm, immersed in the extraordinary beauty of Cilento, where nature and history come together in an indissoluble union. If you are looking for a place to spend a quiet and regenerating vacation, Alfano could be the suitable destination for you.
