Centola
Welcome to Palinuro, the seaside resort of Cilento
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about Palinuro, the largest fraction of Centola, in the province of Salerno in Campania. If you are looking for a seaside resort with an almost magical charm, then you are in the right place. The name Palinuro is legendary connected to a character in the Aeneid, the mythological Palinurus (Aeneid), the helmsman of Aeneas' fleet. But Palinuro is also renowned for its scenic beauty, its naturalistic features, and of course, its crystal-clear beaches.
Physical geography
Territory
Palinuro extends over the small peninsula of the homonymous promontory, Cape Palinuro, which offers sparkling panoramas and beautiful excursions. The peninsula is famous for the presence of both emerged caves, visitable by boat, and submarine caves, reachable only by diving. If you love nature, you cannot miss the Cilento National Park, Vallo di Diano and Alburni, which extends for over 181,000 hectares and offers a wide variety of wild and uncontaminated landscapes. Palinuro is located at the intersection of several state roads, such as SS 447, 447r, 562, and 562d. It is easily accessible from Marina di Camerota, Pisciotta, Caprioli, and Centola.
Climate
The climate of Palinuro is hot and dry during the summer, with temperatures reaching 30 degrees, but pleasant thanks to the sea breeze. During winter, instead, the temperature drops slightly, but the climate remains mild.
Origins of the name
Myth
The name Palinuro is linked to the legend of Aeneas and his helmsman, the mythological Palinurus. According to the legend, the god of sleep made Palinurus fall asleep with music and sweet words, then threw him into the water. Palinurus tried to swim to the shore, but was killed by the Elea and left unburied on the beach. His ghost appears to Aeneas, who promises to find his body and give him a proper burial.
Eighteenth-century fountain
In the center of Palinuro, there is a beautiful eighteenth-century fountain, built in a gentilic orchard. The fountain has a rectangular shape with three symmetrical petal-shaped protrusions and vine tendrils drawn on the side pillars. Although it has been abandoned, the fountain retains its characteristic pastel painting and a charming cavity from which the water gushes out.
History
The history of Palinuro dates back to the archaic era, when a necropolis dating back to the 6th century BC was discovered with burials and funeral furnishings. However, some clues suggest human presence in those places three centuries earlier. There are no traces or elements attributable to the Roman era, but it is presumed that the characteristics of the promontory were used assiduously by the commercial and military ships of ancient Rome.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Palinuro is truly a jewel of Cilento that deserves to be visited at least once in a lifetime. It offers enchanting beaches, unspoiled nature, perfect climate, and a unique atmosphere that makes the stay truly unforgettable. If you love history and mythology, you cannot miss the places linked to the myths of Aeneas and Palinurus. We are waiting for you in Palinuro for a dream vacation!
