Discover Laurino

Laurino lies on a hill at an elevation of 531 metres above sea level, on the banks of the Calore River. Historic buildings, river scenery and nature themes around Gorgonero offer different ways to shape a stay. If you would like to focus your trip more on architectural history, a cultural event or landscapes, the distinctions below can help you plan.

Historic places and their stories

The Palazzo Ducale was built in the second half of the 16th century by the Carafa nobles of Naples on the foundations of an older manor house. Two historical layers meet in this building: the palazzo and the foundations of an older manor house. The Collegiata di Santa Maria Maggiore dates back to around the year 1000. The church contains the relics of Sant’Elena in a glass urn. The two buildings thus represent different periods: a 16th-century palazzo and a church whose origins date to around the year 1000.

The Chiesa dell’Annunziata brings together architecture and painting. Its dome, with Baroque decorations, is considered unique in Cilento. The church also houses a painting of the Madonna with the Angel, created by Girolamo Siciliano in 1577. Here, the design of the dome and a dated work by a known artist can be seen side by side.

The Convento di Sant’Antonio da Padova was established as a charitable institution on the ruins of the Nosocomio di S. Antonio Abate. Those in need would gather in front of the convent when meals were distributed. This story adds the institution’s social role and meal distribution to the history of its buildings and religious life.

River scenery and nature themes

Gorgonero, on the Calore River, has medieval donkey-back bridges. They once made it easier for travellers to cross the river; their history draws attention to the crossing’s former use. The significant springs of Gorgonero on the Calore also provide good conditions for canyoning. If you plan to include this activity, check local safety conditions beforehand.

Another nature theme is the Grava di Vesalo: it is the largest sinkhole in the Alburni-Cervati Apennine complex. This geological feature is therefore quite different from the historic bridges: here, the focus is on a landform, while the bridges relate to the former river crossing. Laurino is also located in the heart of Cilento National Park.

Cultural events and travel planning

The JazzinLaurino Festival & Workshop has been held without interruption since 2003, during the first half of August in the village of Laurino. The festival includes a programme of jazz concerts as well as a creative music seminar with theoretical and practical instruction. If you would like to plan your trip around this event, check the dates of the relevant edition in advance.

The main feast in honour of Sant’Elena takes place on 22 May; further celebrations in honour of the saint from Laurino take place on 18 August. This gives you different dates to consider in May and August. Check that year’s programme if a feast is important to your travel dates.

The nearest listed railway station for Laurino is Vallo della Lucania station. Bus connections to Laurino are listed from Salerno with Autolinee SITA and from Vallo della Lucania with Autolinee CSTP. Before travelling, check the current operators and timetables to make sure your journey matches the services available on your travel day.

Discover more destinations: Scorzo, Cologna, Buccino, San Mauro Cilento, Scafati, Casa Vitagliano, Bosco, Cuccaro Vetere.

For the main travel overview: Salerno.