Moio Della Civitella-Pellare: Civitella, Culture and Trails

Moio Della Civitella-Pellare combines archaeological traces on Civitella with insights into rural culture, historic religious buildings and marked trails. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, these themes may influence your choice of destination. Cultural and historical highlights include ancient building remains, everyday objects, churches and an annual street art festival. The municipality is one of those located in the Parco Nazionale del Cilento, Vallo di Diano e Alburni.

Archaeology and Landscape on Civitella

Archaeological excavations on Civitella uncovered terrace walls, pottery fragments, an arched gate and various foundations dating from the 4th century BC. These finds suggest a fortified center, whose function was probably to control the valleys leading to the sea at Velia. The gate of the settlement on Civitella features a long, narrow defensive corridor, a rectangular room and the hinges of a wooden door cut into the stone. These structural details complement the cautious historical interpretation: alongside the physical structures, the possible function of the site is also of interest.

The landscape is also part of the picture of Civitella. The summit is surrounded by a lush chestnut grove; from there, the view extends across the valley below to the Tyrrhenian coast. For your planning, archaeological evidence and a described landscape view are presented as different aspects of the same place.

Insights into Rural Culture

The Museo della Civiltà Contadina is housed in Palazzo Torrusio, a noble residence dating from the second half of the 18th century. Its collection includes everyday objects from local rural activities and culture, dating from the late 17th to the early 20th century. The sections cover history, domestic life, olive growing, grain cultivation, winemaking, textiles and religion. The museum thus offers a perspective ranging from the private household and agricultural activities to other aspects of rural life. It complements the archaeological site: here, everyday objects and ways of life from a much later period are the focus.

Tour times may vary; visits are scheduled by appointment through the municipal offices. Arrange your visit in advance.

Churches, a Chapel and a Tradition

The Parrocchia Santa Veneranda V.M. dates from the 15th century. Its features include a Gothic choir, three naves and two chapels dedicated to the Madonna di Lourdes and the Madonna del Crocefisso. The bell tower was built after 1550. These details offer several specific architectural features to look out for when visiting the church.

The Cappella dell’Annunziata on Civitella was built in the 14th or 15th century and has been altered several times over the years. The hill is also associated with the “Benedizione delle Croci”: every year on March 25, the Feast of the Annunciation, small wooden crosses made from two chestnut branches tied together are blessed there. Admission to the Chiesa di San Bartolomeo is free. Check service times in advance if they are important for your visit.

Trails with Different Descriptions

The P15.01 – Moio della Civitella via Chiesa dell’Annunziata route is designated for cycling and walking. It starts at the “Retara” locality in the municipality of Moio della Civitella. Trail conditions and access may change; check both before setting out. The Sentiero “Frassati” passes through a chestnut grove and reaches Porta Sud. It also provides pedestrian access to the Parco Archeologico della Civitella. The descriptions offer different points of reference: the P15.01 route specifies the modes of travel and starting point, while the Frassati trail description identifies its passage through the grove and access to the archaeological park.

Mojoca in August

Mojoca is a street art festival held annually in Moio della Civitella at the beginning of August. Artists, jugglers and street musicians perform in the characteristic streets of the main town. If you would like to plan your trip around the festival, check the event dates for the relevant year.

Discover more destinations: Campagna, Capitello, San Pietro Al Tanagro, Capizzo, San Mauro La Bruca, Novi Velia, Oliveto Citra, Serra

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