Caput Aquis, Archaeological site in Capaccio Paestum, Italy.
Caput Aquis is an archaeological site on a hilltop in Capaccio Paestum that contains remains from different periods of settlement. The ruins of walls, buildings, and fortifications reveal how people lived here in both ancient and medieval times and made use of the terrain.
The hilltop was inhabited in ancient times, but the most visible remains date from the Middle Ages when strategic castles and settlements were built there. In the 13th century, the site became contested under Frederick II, showing its importance for controlling the region at that time.
The site shows how people chose this location across different periods because water sources were readily available and valuable. You can see how medieval residents arranged their buildings and defenses around these natural springs.
The site sits on a hilltop and requires stamina to climb, so sturdy footwear and water to drink are important. Marked paths guide visitors, and local guides are available to make the visit more informative and help navigate the terrain.
The name Caput Aquis comes from Latin and literally means head of waters, named after the natural springs that flow at the base of the hill. This naming shows how much the Romans and later medieval inhabitants defined the place around this valuable resource.
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