Acciaroli
Acciaroli: the fishing village turned tourist destination
Acciaroli, located on the Tyrrhenian Sea coast along the SS 267 Cilento road, is the largest fraction of the municipality of Pollica, in the province of Salerno, and the only port. The village has a remarkable history, dating back to the Middle Ages when it was a refuge for ships and a cluster of houses around the Church of the SS. Annunziata. Over the centuries, it expanded towards the hills, became a customs point of the Kingdom of Naples, and later a fishing village until the 1950s. However, in recent decades, Acciaroli has become a renowned and sought-after tourist destination.
The history of the village
The oldest known news about the Acciaroli village dates back to 1165 when it was identified as Aczarulo. Over the centuries, the village has changed its name several times: Azzaroli, Acciarulo and only in 1795, it was officially named Acciaroli, as recognized by Baron Antonini in one of his publications. The port of Acciaroli has been an important refuge for ships since ancient times, although over time, port activities have significantly reduced. The village became an important center for fishermen until the 1950s when the arrival of tourism began to change the economic structure of the area.
The beauties of Acciaroli
Acciaroli has numerous tourist attractions, among which the most important is the Church of the SS. Annunziata, dedicated to the city's patron saint. The church, which has been restored several times, dates back to the 13th century, while the bell tower dates back to 1926 when the church became an actual parish. The tower is part of the defensive wall ordered by Frederick II of Swabia to protect the Cilento coast, and inside, there are also Roman artifacts. The village is also known for the Normanni Tower, part of the defensive system erected by Frederick II of Swabia between the coasts of Agropoli and Sapri. Built-in 1233, it was used by the Spaniards in the succeeding years, then fell into disuse until the 1960s. It was later purchased by a local family and transformed into a private residence after renovation.
The Feast of the SS. Annunziata
As tradition dictates, every year, on the second Sunday of August, the Feast of the SS. Annunziata is celebrated with a procession by sea, where the statue of the Madonna is escorted by local fishing boats, which then continues through the village's streets. An event that is highly treasured by the citizens of Acciaroli and tourists who visit the village during this time of year.
Acciaroli: a place of inspiration for Ernest Hemingway
Acciaroli is also famous for being one of the great writer Ernest Hemingway's favorite places. It is said that Hemingway visited the village in 1950 when he was enlisted in General Clark's V Army and then returned several times until 1953. A place that inspired the writer and continues to enchant visitors to the fishing village turned tourist destination.
In conclusion, Acciaroli is a village rich in history and natural beauty, with a historic port and a church of great historical and cultural importance. A location that has become a significant tourist destination but preserved its ancient and fascinating atmosphere.
