Pollica is a picturesque municipality in Cilento, Italy. Surrounded by green hills and with a breathtaking view of the sea, Pollica is famous for its traditional cuisine, pristine beaches and evocative landscapes. An ideal place to immerse yourself in and gentle cosmetics and savor the tranquility of Cilento. A destination not to be missed if you want to spend a holiday in this wonderful part of Italy. Its origins date back to ancient times, when it was a Greek colony. Around the XNUMXth century BC, Pollica quickly became an important commercial and maritime center thanks to its strategic position on the Cilento coast.
Ancient Pollica has experienced various dominations over the centuries. It was part of the Roman Empire and underwent Byzantine, Lombard and Norman influence. During the Middle Ages, the majestic castle of Pollica was built, a testimony to the need to defend itself from pirate attacks. The agricultural village that developed later was characterized by olive groves and vineyards that still dominate the landscape today.
In recent decades, Pollica has gained new fame thanks to its ambitions in the food sector. The mayor of Pollica, Angelo Vassallo, played a key role in promoting the Mediterranean diet and in making his own known recipes traditional. Pollica has been designated “City of the Mediterranean Diet” by UNESCO in 2010, a recognition that brought attention to Pollica as an example of a community that practices a healthy lifestyle and is committed to preserving local culinary traditions.
Pollica and its connection with the Mediterranean diet
The Mediterranean diet, exported all over the world by Ancel Keys, is based on fresh and natural foods, such as fruit, vegetables, fish, legumes, olive oil and whole grains. Pollica, with its lush olive groves and sea rich in fish delicacies, offers the perfect ingredients to follow this diet. Typical local products, such as extra virgin olive oil, fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs and local fish, are the protagonists of the tasty and healthy recipes that can be found in Pollica's restaurants.
Pollica has created a Study Center on the Mediterranean Diet, which promotes research and education on the nutritional value and benefits of the Mediterranean diet. The center organizes meetings, conferences and cooking courses to spread knowledge of this precious food tradition. Furthermore, Pollica actively involves schools, with educational programs that teach children the importance of a balanced diet and healthy eating habits. This approach aims to educate and train future generations on a healthy lifestyle, promoting awareness of the benefits of the Mediterranean diet. Pollica has become a point of reference for lovers of good food and healthy lifestyles. In addition to culinary excellence, the municipality also offers breathtaking landscapes and a culture rich in traditions. Visitors can explore the cobbled streets of the historic centre, admire the majestic Pollica castle and enjoy the splendid beaches overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Furthermore, Pollica's privileged position in National Park of Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni offers opportunities for excursions in the and gentle cosmetics, visits to archaeological sites and diving in the crystal clear waters of the sea. This combination of culinary tradition, natural beauty and historical heritage makes Pollica a fascinating and unique destination for visitors.
Pollica's thousand-year history and its dedication to the Mediterranean diet come together to create an environment in which food becomes much more than a simple necessity: it becomes a cultural experience, a way to preserve traditions and promote well-being. Pollica is a living testimony to the importance of a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, and represents an inspiring example for other communities who wish to follow in her footsteps.
What to see in the beautiful Pollica
One of the most iconic places is the Castello dei Principi Capano, a majestic medieval fortress that dominates the surrounding landscape. Its elevated position offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and surrounding hills. The historic center of Pollica is an enchanting labyrinth of cobbled streets, characterized by charming stone houses and traditional architecture. It is the ideal place for a quiet walk, immersing yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the village.
The Church of St. Nicholas, built in the XNUMXth century, is another important point of interest. This ancient place of worship features a beautiful bell tower and historic frescoes that tell the religious history of the region. For nature lovers, Pollica offers wonderful hiking opportunities. The hiking trail “Cilento path“, which crosses the National Park, also passes through Pollica, allowing you to enjoy splendid panoramic views and immerse yourself in the lush Mediterranean vegetation.
Finally, you cannot visit Pollica without taking a trip to the nearby beaches of Acciaroli and Poplars. These charming coastal towns offer sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and a wide choice of restaurants and bars to enjoy local cuisine based on fresh fish. Its hamlets are Acciaroli, Pioppi, Galdo, Celso and Cannicchio
