Salerno is a fascinating example of what the Mediterranean has to offer all those who wish to have a closer knowledge of it. The town presents itself as a friendly comunity to visitors and tourists from all over the world.
Over the last few years the town council has improved its urban aspect and recuperated the social – economic functions of the area: ancient monuments and churches have been restored: new parks and gardens have been opened in various town quarters;
roads and squares have been replenished with plants and benches and lit by ornate street lamps, many spaces have been retrieved for artistic, cultural and recreation activities; sports facilities have been increased with the building of new structures such as the Arechi Stadium. Many projects have been carried out to improve the surroundings and standard of living in certain parts of the town.
One can see the many traces of ancient history mixed with the artesan shops and places of entertainment where people throng, in the old town of Salerno which is both quite extraordinary and charming. The recovery of the old town was accomplished thanks to the urban project financial funds which have enabled the discovery of arti stic and cultural treasure.
Today one can read the town’s history merely by looking at the alleys and squares, the churches and buildings. One can perceive the course of events which have followed, a testimony of the flourishing economic, social and cultural splendour of the past centuries.
Nightlife takes place right here in the old town. The town hall has made the opening of many restaurants and places of entertainment possibile. At weekends the many pubs are filled with youngsters till the early hours. In the summer however, people prefer the
fresh air of the seafront which is just a few metres away. The coast is also not short of discoteques and places of entertainment.

Historical Notes

There is very litt le informati on regarding the origins of Salerno, although we are lead to believe that the area was inhabited from the early days. We know the Greeks brought to the vast plains, the culti vati on of linen and wheat crops, olives and fruit, whilst the Etruscans brought the textile, ceramic and bronze industries. In 197/4 B.C it became a Roman colony under the name of “Salernum”. The colony progressed, enriching its culture and its traditions, even during the Goti dominion. But only after the Lombardy conquest did it become the most flourishing centre of southern Italy.

In 786, Arechi II transferred the ducal seat of Benevento to Salerno to escape an attack by Carlo Magno and gain control of a strategic area between the coast and inland comunications. The Longobard prince fortified the town, which already possessed the castle on the Bonadies hill, with walls and towers, thus the new capitol became a principality seat and politi cal centre.

During the reign of Arechi II, Salerno knew great splendour, becoming the seat of the oldest medical instituti on in western europe. The famous School of Medicine became known for its precious scientific discoveries fundamental for the present day. On 13 th December 1076, the Norman leader Roberto the Guiscard, conquered Salerno, bringing an end to the old age dominati on. The Terracina Castle and Cathedral were built under Norman rule and great importance was given to

science, in parti cular the School of Medicine. At the end of the century, a period of economical awakening was registered in the town with the coming of the Normans. Manfred, the son of Federico II, built the jett y which has sti ll his name today and founded the annual fair of S. Mathew, the most signifi cant of its kind in southern Italy. Queen Margherita of Durazzo took up residence in Salerno aft er the Angoin conquest. She is buried in the cathedral in a monumental tomb, work of the famous sculptor Barbocio da Piperno.

After the XVI century most of the province of Salerno was ruled by the Princes of Sanseverino, strong overlords who att racted men of art and culture to the town. In the fi rst decade of the XVI century, the last descendant of the Sanseverino’s disagreed with the Spanish government, bringing ruin to the family which brought decline to the town.

The years 1656, 1688 and 1694 are painful dates for Salerno: plague and earthquakes produced numerous victi ms. A slow rebirth of the town began at the end of the Spanish empire, during the XVIII century, with the constructi on of many lordly properti es and churches which can sti ll be seen today in the old town.

In 1799, Salerno became part of the Neapolitan Republic. During this period, Gioacchino Murat demanded the closure of the School of Medicine. Religious orders were suppressed at the same ti me and many ecclesiasti cal properti es were confi scated.

The town expanded outside the ancient walls. An urban development of the area began which continued aft er the Unity of Italy up to the second world war with the expansion of many suburban areas and the constructi on of both public and residenti al buildings. In September 1943, Salerno witnessed the allied landings and from 12th February to 17 th July 1944 was the seat of the Badoglio government. The aftermath of war was diffi cult for all Italians, but Salerno has slowly succeeded in growing and devolping into a modern european town.

Sport as a key to community engagement

In this setting, sport plays a pivotal role in community engagement and strengthening bonds between diverse communities. Salerno and its province are well-known for the sports enthusiasm that permeates the local culture, where physical activity is seen not only as a means of individual well-being but also as a powerful tool for social inclusion. Sports such as football, volleyball, basketball, as well as less traditional disciplines like cycling and athletics, are widely practiced at both amateur and professional levels.

The CUS Salerno (University Sports Center) is one of the city’s main sports hubs, promoting physical activities for students, young people, and families, and fostering unity across generations through sports. The CUS is also the promoter of major sporting events that attract athletes and enthusiasts from all over Italy and abroad. Moreover, Salerno’s involvement in the European Universities Games (EUG) 2026 presents a remarkable opportunity to spotlight sport as a means of community engagement at both the provincial and international levels.

Wonders of the Province of Salerno

The province of Salerno is a veritable treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From hilltop villages to national parks stretching down to the coast, each corner of this province offers breathtaking views and a rich legacy of history. Here are four must-see places to visit:

1. The Amalfi Coast: This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most iconic and stunning coastal areas in the world. With picturesque villages like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, the Amalfi Coast is famous for its steep cliffs, sparkling beaches, and lush gardens. The region is also renowned for its culinary tradition, especially its fresh seafood dishes and locally grown lemons.

2. Cilento, Vallo di Diano, and Alburni National Park: One of Campania’s most significant protected areas, offering a remarkable variety of landscapes, from mountains to coastal plains. The park is ideal for hiking, biking, and driving excursions, and is home to medieval villages like Roscigno Vecchia and Castelcivita, as well as rich biodiversity. The area also boasts significant archaeological sites, including Paestum, with its impressive Greek temples.

3. Paestum: Paestum is one of the most important archaeological sites in southern Italy. Famous for its well-preserved Doric temples, including the Temple of Neptune and the Temple of Hera, the ancient city of Paestum tells the story of Magna Graecia, with ruins dating back to the 6th century BC. The Paestum Archaeological Museum, which houses unique artifacts, completes the experience, taking visitors through the grandeur of this ancient civilization.

4. The Certosa di San Lorenzo in Padula: This monastic complex, one of the largest in Europe, is an extraordinary example of religious architecture. Nestled in the greenery of the Cilento mountains, the monastery is famous for its cloisters, gardens, and Baroque decorations. The Certosa di Padula is a symbol of southern Italy’s spirituality and culture and represents an unmissable destination for those wishing to immerse themselves in history and natural beauty.

EUG 2026: an opportunity to promote the territory

The assignment of the European Universities Games (EUG) 2026 to Salerno represents an extraordinary opportunity to promote the city and its province as an internationally recognized sports and tourist destination. This event will bring together approximately 5,000 athletes from 500 universities across Europe, offering a unique opportunity to showcase not only Salerno’s sports facilities but also the natural and cultural beauty of the city and province.

The EUG 2026 is more than just a sporting event; it is a chance to promote sport as a unifying force that transcends geographical, cultural, and social barriers. In line with the principles of the European University Sports Association (EUSA), the EUG embodies values such as inclusion, respect, and fair play, contributing to the creation of a united and supportive European university community.

Additionally, the EUG 2026 offers Salerno and its province the chance to spotlight their natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and culinary traditions to an international audience. The event will not only have a positive economic impact but will also highlight the region’s commitment to sustainability and cultural heritage, contributing to a responsible and conscious tourism model.

Salerno and its province offer the perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and sport. With the EUG 2026, the city and the surrounding territory will have the opportunity to shine on the international stage, showcasing not only their beauty but also their welcoming and dynamic spirit. Thanks to this event, Salerno will solidify its position as a hub for sports, culture, and tourism, promoting values of inclusion, respect, and sustainability while creating a lasting legacy for future generations.