The Ghost Villages of Cilento: A Journey Through Time Between Silence and Beauty

There is a Cilento that doesn’t overlook the sea, but rather looks down on the valleys, perched on rocky spurs and enveloped in an almost mystical silence. It is the Cilento of abandoned places, where nature has reclaimed its space among the stone houses. Exploring the ghost villages of Cilento is a soul-stirring experience, perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path excursion during their stay at Hotel Schuhmann.

San Severino di Centola: The Sentinel of the Mingardo Valley

Among the ghost towns of Cilento, San Severino di Centola is probably the most scenic. Gradually abandoned since the postwar period due to landslides and isolation, today it resembles a stone nativity scene overlooking the “Devil’s Throat.”

Strolling through its deserted alleys allows you to admire:

• The superb 11th-century medieval tower.

• The remains of the church and manor houses.

• A breathtaking view of the railway and the Mingardo River below.

The village is now an open-air museum, curated by local associations that preserve its memory, making it a must-see for photography enthusiasts.

Roccagloriosa and the Charm of Ancient Civilizations

Although the modern town is alive and vibrant, the Roccagloriosa area hosts testimonies that place it among the most evocative places of abandonment. Here, medieval history overlaps with that of Lucania.

Visiting the ruins of the old castle and the local settlements is like immersing yourself in a distant past. The contrast between the imposing walls and the silence of the valley below creates a sense of absolute peace, typical of the ghost villages of Cilento.

Other Fascinating Places: Sacco

The journey into mystery doesn’t end here. There are other little gems that complete the map of the abandoned Cilento:

• Sacco Vecchia: Located on a high cliff at the foot of Mount Motola, the ruins of this medieval village offer a dizzying view and tell stories of sieges and resistance.

Why visit the abandoned villages during your stay at Schuhmann?

After a morning spent soaking up the sun on our private beach in Paestum, dedicating the afternoon to the ghost villages of Cilento represents the perfect balance between relaxation and culture.

These places are just over an hour’s drive from Hotel Schuhmann and offer a cool climate, ideal even on the hottest summer days. It’s a great way to discover the Cilento hinterland, with its chestnut forests and timeless traditions.

Expert tip: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a camera. The sunset light on the stones of San Severino is a spectacle you won’t soon forget.

Ready to discover the secrets of Cilento?

Book your stay at Hotel Schuhmann now and ask at reception for maps to reach the most beautiful villages!