Campania has been a sought-after holiday destination since antiquity. Overlooking the magnificent Bay of Naples stands the iconic Mount Vesuvius—today dormant yet unforgettable for the dramatic eruption that buried Pompeii and Herculaneum nearly 2,000 years ago. The region’s roots reach back to the 8th century BC, when Greek settlers established some of the earliest colonies in the western Mediterranean. They were followed by the Etruscans and later the Romans, who shaped much of Campania’s cultural and architectural identity. During the Middle Ages, the coastal Republic of Amalfi became one of Italy’s earliest maritime powers, flourishing through trade across the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, the Kingdom of Naples emerged and endured for roughly seven centuries, passing through the hands of the French Normans, the German Hohenstaufen, the Angevins, and finally the Spanish Crown under the House of Aragon. The Bourbons later governed the kingdom until the Napoleonic period, when Joseph Bonaparte briefly ruled. Giuseppe Garibaldi’s arrival in 1860 marked the end of the Kingdom of Naples and the unification of southern Italy into the modern Italian nation. Thanks to this layered and illustrious past, Campania today offers travelers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Highlights Not to Miss Campania’s attractions are as varied as they are unforgettable: • Capri & Anacapri – Famous for the Blue Grotto, Faraglioni rocks, and elegant piazzette. • The Amalfi Coast – Dramatic cliffs, emerald seas, and the charming towns of Amalfi, Positano, Ravello, Atrani, and Minori. • Naples – A vibrant city bursting with life, art, and world-class museums such as the National Archaeological Museum and the Capodimonte Museum. • Pompeii & Herculaneum – Exceptionally preserved archaeological sites offering a window into ancient Roman daily life. • Paestum – Home to some of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. • Sorrento – Beloved for its citrus groves, panoramic terraces, and gateway to the coast. • Royal Palace of Caserta – Often called the “Italian Versailles,” featuring lavish halls and sweeping gardens. • Phlegraean Fields (Campi Flegrei) – A unique volcanic area with archaeological treasures such as the Flavian Amphitheater and Baia’s submerged ancient city. • Procida & Ischia – Colorful fishing villages, thermal springs, and lush Mediterranean landscapes. • Cilento National Park – Unspoiled beaches, caves, and medieval hilltop villages. ### A Taste of Campania From iconic dishes to globally adored delicacies, Campania’s cuisine is a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients. Travelers should not miss the region’s legendary pizza—prepared with local tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and produce grown in the fertile volcanic soil. Campania is also home to Mozzarella di Bufala Campana, made from buffalo milk and known worldwide for its softness and rich flavor. Add fresh seafood, handmade pasta, traditional pastries like sfogliatelle and pastiera, and you have one of Italy’s most memorable culinary experiences. Ready to Explore? Would you like to reserve a collective tour to Pompeii – Vesuvius – Herculano or Naples? Discover our selection of group experiences here: https://www.amalficoastrentalsupport.com/small-group-tours-from-the-town-of-amalfi