Petina between the Monti Alburni and the historic center

Petina between the Monti Alburni and the historic center

Petina lies on the slopes of the Monti Alburni, in a landscape of chestnut, oak and maple trees. The historic center consists of narrow lanes, stairways and small arcades that invite you to take a stroll.

History in rock and stone

One of the notable sites is the Sant’Onofrio hermitage monastery. It stands on a rocky outcrop 361 meters above sea level and is located in an open setting. The Spirito Santo rock complex is built into the rock face on which the settlement of Petina stands.

The Chiesa San Nicola di Bari also bears witness to several construction phases. The church dates back to the 14th century and was expanded in the 16th century and subsequently in the 18th century, more precisely between 1736 and 1737. Its stone portal from 1510 is attributed to Francesco da Sicignano. Those interested in architecture and historical details will find different periods and a clearly recognizable artisanal feature in a single building.

Paths through the town center and surrounding area

The 800-meter-long Sentiero Carpineto connects the historic center with the Vecchio Mulino del Vallone Sant’Onofrio. The 858-meter-long Sentiero Spirito Santo runs below the municipality of Petina and connects the historic center with the Cappella di Santa Maria del Cedro. The two paths have different spatial focuses: one leads to an old mill, while the other leads to a chapel below the municipality.

The Sentiero degli Alburni is also available for a longer hike. The trail is 19.4 kilometers long, lies within Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park and passes through a hilly landscape. The clearly different trail lengths help you plan short routes around the town center and a more extensive hike separately in your daily itinerary.

Forest, starry skies and regional flavors

The Aresta Astronomical Observatory is located at an altitude of 1,169 meters on the Monti Alburni massif, in a large clearing surrounded by dense forest. Public astronomy programs include sky observations accompanied by the observatory’s educators, using the available equipment. Advance reservation is required to participate.

Petina also expresses its local character through its cuisine. The Festa della Fragolina di Petina is a traditional festival honoring the local wild strawberry, a typical product grown at the foot of the Monti Alburni. The Festa della Fragolina e dei sapori degli Alburni combines gastronomy, folklore and nature. Traditional foods associated with Petina include sausages, Caciocavallo, mushrooms and hand-baked bread.

More destinations for your trip to Italy

Cava Deʼ Tirreni, San Rufo, Torchiara, Bosco, Mandia, Morigerati, Novi Velia and Futani

For the higher-level travel overview: Salerno.