Paestum

Paestum is an ancient city in Campania, Italy, renowned for three remarkably preserved Greek temples. Originally founded as Poseidonia by Greek colonists around 600 BCE, it later became a Roman colony. It is located about 25 miles (40 km) southeast of Salerno and is a prominent stop for visitors exploring the region.

The archaeological site contains three massive Doric temples dating from 550 to 450 BCE: 

• Temple of Hera I (The Basilica): The oldest of the three temples, built around 550 BCE.
• Temple of Hera II (Temple of Neptune): Built around 460 BCE, this is widely considered one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world.
• Temple of Athena: Built around 500 BCE, situated on the highest point of the ancient city.

Over time, changing climate and a blocked river caused the area to turn into a malarial swamp. This abandonment, while tragic for early medieval inhabitants, protected the structures from medieval quarrying and repurposing, leaving the temples in stunning condition today. 

The site also includes the Paestum Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts found on-site—most notably the famous Tomb of the Diver. The beautifully painted frescoes on the tomb are the only surviving examples of Greek wall painting from the Archaic period. 

The archaeological park is open to the public daily. A standard adult ticket costs €15 and provides access to both the temple grounds and the museum.