Campania

Located in the sun kissed south of Italy, the region of Campania is a land of breathtaking beauty, rich history, and unparalleled culinary tradition. With Naples - once the capital of the Kingdom of Naples before Italy's unification in the 19th century - reigning as its vibrant epicenter, Campania offers an intoxicating blend of culture, flavors, and landscapes that captivate all who visit. The name "Campania," derived from Latin, evokes images of fertile lands, a fitting tribute to the region’s lush countryside and the abundant harvests that have nourished its people for centuries.

Naples itself is a city brimming with energy, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. The streets pulse with life as locals move through bustling markets teeming with fresh produce and the irresistible scent of wood fired pizza. The vibrant piazzas serve as gathering places where friends share stories over expertly brewed espresso or indulge in sweet treats like sfogliatella, a flaky pastry filled with rich ricotta.

Campania’s landscape is dotted with UNESCO World Heritage sites that bear witness to its illustrious past. The grandeur of the Royal Palace of Caserta, with its lavish courtyards and spectacular gardens, rivals the majesty of Versailles, while the ruins of Pompeii offer a haunting glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Romans, preserved in volcanic ash since the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Further south, the Greek city of Paestum stands as a testament to the region's Hellenic roots, while the glamorous island of Capri enchants visitors with its chic piazzetta and stunning sea views. The dramatic cliffs and picturesque villages of the Amalfi Coast provide yet another layer of beauty to this remarkable region, luring travelers to explore its sun drenched shores.

Beyond its historical and scenic marvels, Campania is a haven for food lovers, where culinary excellence is woven into the fabric of everyday life. The region is perhaps most famous as the birthplace of Neapolitan pizza - an art form in its own right, with a charred, chewy crust and a perfectly balanced tomato sauce made from locally grown San Marzano tomatoes. But pizza is just the beginning of Campania’s gastronomic treasures. Pasta dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) highlight the region's close relationship with the sea, while eggplant parmigiana and ragu napoletano showcase its bold and hearty flavors.

Cheese lovers will find themselves in paradise, with Campania being home to the world renowned Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP, an irresistibly creamy and delicate cheese obtained from the milk of buffalo milk. Meanwhile, street food enthusiasts can delight in the crispy delights of frittatina di pasta, a fried pasta cake.

Campania’s culinary richness extends to its winemaking tradition, which dates back to the 12th century BC. One of Italy’s oldest and most esteemed wine producing regions, Campania’s diverse terrain and favorable climate give rise to an exceptional array of grape varieties. The bold and structured Aglianico grape, revered as the backbone of the region’s red wines, finds its pinnacle in Taurasi, often called the "Barolo of the South." Meanwhile, Campania’s white wines are no less impressive, with Greco di Tufo offering bright acidity and minerality, Fiano di Avellino displaying floral elegance, and Falanghina providing a crisp and refreshing option that pairs beautifully with the region’s seafood dishes.

The volcanic soil of Mount Vesuvius enriches the terroir, imparting distinctive characteristics to the wines grown in its shadow. Lacryma Christi, meaning "Tears of Christ," is one such wine, with both red and white variations offering depth and complexity. From the sun drenched vineyards of the Amalfi Coast to the inland hills of Irpinia, Campania’s wines embody the essence of the land, each bottle telling a story of its ancient origins and modern craftsmanship.

In essence, Campania is more than just a destination - it is a sensory journey through time and taste. From the vibrant streets of Naples to the serene vineyards of Avellino, every sip of wine and every bite of food speaks of ancient traditions, Mediterranean warmth, and a passion for life that is uniquely Campanian. Whether indulging in a glass of Taurasi while overlooking the Amalfi Coast or savoring a freshly made pizza in the heart of Naples, visitors to this extraordinary region will find themselves immersed in an unforgettable experience of flavors, history, and beauty.

If you are a meat lover, a place we recommend is Rocco Caggiano – Il Sapore del Fuoco if you are in the area, it is definitely worth a detour.