Velia

Velia is an excavated ancient city perched on a headland above the Tyrrhenian Sea in southern Italy. The ruins display structures from both Greek and Roman periods, revealing how the settlement developed over many centuries.

The city was founded around 540 BC by Greeks who fled from Persian threat and settled along this coast. Later it came under Roman control and became an important trading port under their rule.

The thinkers who lived and worked here shaped the way people understand reality and thought across centuries. Walking through reveals a place where intellectual debate happened within an ancient community that valued learning and ideas.

The site is best explored on foot with sturdy shoes for the uneven paths and slopes throughout the grounds. Access to both the upper and lower sections of the ancient city is available but the walking conditions vary.

The Porta Rosa gate displays a rounded arch built by ancient Greeks, a construction method rarely found in southern Italy. This passage connects the upper and lower sections of the city and shows an uncommon building approach.

Location: Ascea

Inception: 538 BCE

Operator: Parco archeologico di Paestum e Velia

Address: contrada Piana di Velia, accesso da Via di Porta Rosa

Website: http://archeosa.beniculturali.it/?center=sito&id_sito=3&id_luogo=14

GPS coordinates: 40.15944,15.15444

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:23