Vibonati
Vibonati: the town between the sea and the mountains
Vibonati is a small municipality in Campania, located in the province of Salerno. With its 3137 inhabitants, it offers a spectacular view of the Gulf of Policastro and extends between Basilicata and Calabria. The town is located on the outskirts of the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park.
Territory
Vibonati is an agricultural centre located inland to the northwest of Sapri, on a thin and elongated spur, whose configuration is reflected in the structure of the town, nestled between two valleys that are tributaries of the Cacafava stream. Near the mouth of this stream, is the fraction of Villammare, which stretches along the sea and has become a very popular tourist destination. It is worth noting the presence of a telegraph tower dating back to the Spanish viceroyal period in the fraction.
History
The town of Vibonati has very ancient origins. According to some local historians, it was founded by Roman colonists and was called Vibo ad Siccam by Cicero. Others argue that its foundation dates back to the Phoenician exiles of Tyre, who would have given the name Tirone to a part of the town. The first mention of the village dates back to 1415 when it was granted to Masello count of Ravello. Later, it passed into the hands of various owners and in 1860, hosted Giuseppe Garibaldi. Vibonati has always played an important role in the Gulf of Policastro as until the immediate post-war period, it was home to the Real Office of the Register, the Pretura, and the Prisons.
Attractions
Vibonati offers numerous attractions for lovers of art and culture. The town centre is perched and consists of a medieval historic centre. All around the streets of the historic centre, it is possible to see numerous churches where one can observe paintings from the 12th and 13th centuries. The most important are the Sanctuary of Sant'Antonio abate, the patron saint, and the recently restored church of the Santissima Annunziata. The ancient tower that stands in Piazza Nicotera and which is now annexed to the church of the Santissima Trinità, is the only remaining trace of the walls of the medieval village.
Seismic classification
Vibonati falls within zone 2 (medium seismicity) and was included in the PCM Ordinance 3274 of 20/03/2003.
Administrative subdivision
During the kingdom of Naples, from 1806 to 1811, Vibonati was the capital of the homonymous administrative subdivision of the Kingdom of Naples. Subsequently, it was elevated to capital of the administrative subdivision of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies## Districts (dependent on the district of Sala) until 1860. From 1924 until its suppression in 1927, it was the capital of the homonymous jurisdiction (law) belonging to the district of Sala Consilina.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Vibonati with its breathtaking landscapes offers an ideal holiday for those who want to combine the beauty of the sea and the mountains. With its churches and ancient walls, the historic centre offers a total immersion in the history of the village. In the meantime, the fraction of Villammare offers enchanting beaches and a spectacular view of the Gulf of Policastro. The presence of a telegraph tower dating back to the Spanish viceroyal period makes the fraction even more fascinating. Vibonati is an ideal place for those who want to discover the beauties of Cilento and Campania.
