Campania

Hera temple II - Paestum - Poseidonia - July 13th 2013 - 04

Aeclanum (Thermae-01)

Karl Brullov - The Last Day of Pompeii - Google Art Project

Napoli Castel Nuovo Maschio Angioino, a seat of medieval kings of Naples and Aragon 2013

Onofrio Palumbo - Masaniello

Campania is a region in Southern Italy that serves as a rich historical, cultural, and geographical tapestry. It is bordered by Lazio to the northwest, Molise to the north, Puglia (Apulia) to the northeast, Basilicata to the east, and the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west. The region covers an area of approximately 13,590 square kilometers, making it the 14th largest region in Italy, and as of the latest estimates, it has a population of around 5.8 million people, ranking it as the third most populous region in Italy.

History

Campania's history is among the richest in Italy, dating back to the Ancient Greeks who founded some of the first settlements in the area, such as Neapolis (modern-day Naples). It was later a pivotal part of the Roman Empire, with the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum being famously destroyed and preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Throughout the centuries, Campania has been influenced by various rulers and cultures, including the Byzantines, Lombards, Normans, and the Spanish.

Geography

Campania is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes some of Italy's most famous coastlines, such as the Amalfi Coast and the Cilento coast, as well as the rugged interior mountains and fertile plains like the Campanian Plain. Mount Vesuvius, one of the few active volcanoes in Europe, dominates the landscape near Naples and is a major tourist attraction.

Economy

The economy of Campania is a mix of agriculture, industry, and services. It is renowned for its production of mozzarella di bufala (buffalo mozzarella), a cheese made from the milk of the domestic Italian water buffalo. The region is also a significant producer of tomatoes, especially the San Marzano variety, which are essential for authentic Neapolitan pizza. Tourism is a major part of the economy, with ancient archaeological sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum, the vibrant city of Naples, and the stunning Amalfi Coast attracting millions of visitors each year.

Culture

Campania has a rich cultural heritage, particularly in music, cuisine, and architecture. It is the birthplace of the Neapolitan song tradition, and its cuisine is recognized worldwide for dishes such as pizza, spaghetti with clams, and sfogliatella. The region has also contributed significantly to Italian cinema, with Naples being a center for film production.

Administrative divisions

Campania is divided into five provinces: Naples (Napoli), Salerno, Caserta, Benevento, and Avellino. Each province has its own unique attractions and characteristics, from the urban sprawl of Naples to the historical sites of Benevento and the natural beauty of Salerno's coastline.

Challenges

Despite its cultural and economic contributions, Campania faces several challenges, including environmental issues related to waste management and the presence of the Camorra, a powerful Neapolitan mafia syndicate that has been a source of crime and corruption.

Conclusion

Campania remains a vital and vibrant region of Italy, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural richness. Its challenges notwithstanding, Campania continues to be a significant contributor to Italy's economy and a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.