Cuccaro Vetere: Stupendo villaggio medievale dell'interland cilentano

Il monastero francescano La Natura La Cucina Antichi Mestieri

The Origins

One of the four Normanne dominions of the Barony of Novi Velia, Cuccaro Vetere was first sub-feud and then independent feud. The village still preserves its imposing appearance which made it famous as a fortification castled as it is on the top of a hill to control the valley below. Walking in the historical center of the town means having a full immersion in unknown sensations which make you relive an atmosphere of ancient charm to which the endless steps of the narrow alleys are a perfect frame to characteristic corners and to foreshortenings of enchanting landscapes. Ancient artisan laboratories where ancient callings were practised ideally meet the remains of old baronal houses which show that the place was appreciated not only for the strategic position, but also for the quality of life enjoyed by those who lived there.

Cuccaro Vetere: monastero di S. Francesco risalente al XII secolo

Testimony of the ancient civilization of the town are the rimains S. Francis' convent which may be traced back around the beginnings of the XIV century. Built thanks to the wish of princess Ilaria of Lauria, widow of Henry Sanseverino Earl of Marsico, the monastery, overhung by the imposing bel tower which still remainds visiting people the ancient splendors, is famous for the colonnade where the monks used to walk in prayer.

Una natura incontaminata

For those who love nature the surrounding mountains are inexhaustible font of extraordinary surprises where the beauty of the mediterranean flora and the endless beech-woods leave in the visitores indelible signs which prelude to a sure return. The secular olive trees, the sweetness of the surrounding hills covered with vineyards (above all in the underlying valley) that give a generous local wine, the orchards, the secular chastnut-woods and the renouned hospitality of the native peoples all contribute to make it the ideal place for those who love a relaxing vacation of rest. In the heart of a luxurious nature you can find numerous well equipped areas where one can enjoy tranquillity and find sources of fresh and pure water ready to give you relief after the sweat of the climbing.

Antico camino in una casa contadina

La cucina

The culinary tradition from Cuccaro can generally be considered rustic, but very tasty. Among the best dishes you can have the "fusilli" (a kind of homemade pasta) seasoned with tomato sauce with castrated male goat (once also made with game: the mountains of Cuccaro were famous for the huntig of woodcocks that was practised above all on the Laurusso plane (the name derives from the red of the ferns in autumn and means "red lake"). roasted meat, kidskins fed only with grass (those who have never tried it cannot say the difference.) and let alone the home made salami and cheeses, "capicolli", brawns, buttermilk curds, and sheep's milk cheese all tasted with a generous local wine that helps to well appreciate the good things of life. Delicious are the home made cakes prepared following ancient recipes handed down from mother to daughter: "suspiri", "nginetti", "zeppole", "susamieddi" etc.

Old things

Shoesmaker tools to witness an old craftsmanship