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Santa Maria Capua Vetere

Santa Maria Capua Vetere, Campania, Italy

Santa Maria Capua Vetere, located in the region of Campania, Italy, is a charming town steeped in history and brimming with cultural treasures. As one of the oldest cities in the region, it is a must-visit destination fo…

#Historic site#Ancient ruins#Roman amphitheater#Archaeological site#Italian heritage
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Santa Maria Capua Vetere.

Top Hotels in Santa Maria Capua Vetere

Top Flights to Santa Maria Capua Vetere

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Santa Maria Capua Vetere.

Tours

Visiting the Amphitheatre of Campania

Explore the ancient Roman amphitheatre that dates back to 1st century BC, known as one of the largest in Italy.

Shopping

Shopping at Centro Commerciale Apollo

Visit a large shopping center in Santa Maria Capua Vetere offering a variety of local and international brands.

Outdoor

Hiking at the Tifatini Mountains

Enjoy a hiking adventure at the scenic Tifatini Mountains, offering panoramic views of the Campanian countryside.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Santa Maria Capua Vetere.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
36,000
Languages
Italian, Italian
Average weather
Santa Maria Capua Vetere
Jan
rain
12°4°
Feb
rain
13°4°
Mar
cloud
16°6°
Apr
cloud
19°9°
May
sun
24°13°
Jun
sun
28°17°
Jul
hot
31°20°
Aug
hot
31°20°
Sep
sun
27°17°
Oct
cloud
22°13°
Nov
rain
17°9°
Dec
rain
13°5°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Santa Maria Capua Vetere.

What people love

Santa Maria Capua Vetere is a charming town in the Campania region of Italy with a rich history and several attractions that make it a worthwhile travel destination. Here are some pros of traveling to Santa Maria Capua Vetere:

  1. Historical significance: Santa Maria Capua Vetere is home to the ancient Roman amphitheater, the second largest in Italy after the Colosseum. This well-preserved amphitheater is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and offers insight into the Roman era.

  2. Archaeological sites: In addition to the amphitheater, Santa Maria Capua Vetere boasts other archaeological sites such as the Mitreo, a Roman temple dedicated to the god Mithras, and the ruins of the ancient city of Capua.

  3. Local cuisine: Visitors can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in Santa Maria Capua Vetere, with traditional dishes from the Campania region such as buffalo mozzarella, pasta dishes, and pastries like sfogliatella.

  4. Charming atmosphere: The town itself has a picturesque and quaint atmosphere, perfect for leisurely walks through its historic streets lined with charming buildings and local shops.

  5. Convenient location: Santa Maria Capua Vetere is located near other popular destinations in Campania, such as Naples, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast, making it a convenient base for exploring the region.

Overall, traveling to Santa Maria Capua Vetere offers a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that are sure to appeal to travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience.

What to know

Santa Maria Capua Vetere is a historical town in Campania, Italy, known for its ancient Roman ruins and archaeological sites. While it is a charming destination with a rich history, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling there:

  1. Limited tourist infrastructure: Santa Maria Capua Vetere is a small town and may not have as many tourist facilities and amenities compared to larger cities in Italy. Accommodation options, restaurants, and transportation services could be limited.

  2. Lack of English proficiency: As a less touristy destination, you may encounter fewer English speakers in Santa Maria Capua Vetere. This can make communication challenging if you do not speak Italian fluently.

  3. Transportation challenges: The town may have limited public transportation options, making it difficult to get around without a car. Planning your transportation in advance is recommended to avoid any inconvenience.

  4. Seasonal closures: Some attractions, shops, and restaurants in Santa Maria Capua Vetere may have limited hours or close during certain seasons, so it's important to check ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

  5. Noise and crowds: While Santa Maria Capua Vetere is not as busy as major tourist cities, it can still get crowded during peak tourist seasons. If you prefer quieter destinations, you may find the town too bustling for your liking.

Overall, while Santa Maria Capua Vetere offers a unique and historical experience, travelers should be aware of these potential challenges to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Santa Maria Capua Vetere, located in the Campania region of Italy, is a town with a rich historical background. It is the modern successor to the ancient city of Capua, which played a significant role in Roman history.

Ancient History

  1. Foundation and Early History:

    • The area was originally settled by the Etruscans, with the ancient city of Capua being one of the most important cities of ancient Italy. It was later inhabited by the Oscans and then the Samnites.
    • Capua became a Roman ally in the 4th century BCE during the Samnite Wars.

  2. Roman Era:

    • Capua was famous for its wealth and luxury during the Roman Republic and the Empire. It was a major center for trade and commerce.
    • The city is notably associated with Spartacus, the leader of the slave revolt known as the Third Servile War (73-71 BCE). Spartacus was a gladiator who fought in the amphitheater located in Capua.
    • Capua was known for its formidable amphitheater, which was second only to the Colosseum in Rome in terms of size and grandeur. The Amphitheater of Capua could hold up to 60,000 spectators.

  3. Decline:

    • Capua suffered during the decline of the Roman Empire and was heavily damaged during the invasions of the Vandals and the Goths.

Medieval to Modern History

  1. Medieval Period:

    • After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Capua was abandoned, and its inhabitants moved to the present site of Santa Maria Capua Vetere.
    • The Lombards established a new settlement in the area in the 6th century, which eventually developed into a fortified town.

  2. Modern Era:

    • In the 19th century, the town was renamed Santa Maria Capua Vetere to distinguish it from the modern city of Capua, which lies nearby.
    • During World War II, Santa Maria Capua Vetere suffered from bombings, which destroyed parts of the town.

Significant Landmarks

  1. Amphitheater of Capua:

    • The Roman amphitheater is one of the most significant ancient structures in the town. It was built during the reign of Augustus and expanded under Hadrian.
    • It includes well-preserved underground chambers and passages that were used by gladiators and wild animals.

  2. Museo Archeologico dell’Antica Capua:

    • This archeological museum presents a comprehensive view of the ancient city of Capua, showcasing artifacts from various periods of its history.

  3. Mitreo (Mithraeum):

    • An ancient temple dedicated to the god Mithras, featuring well-preserved frescoes and altars.

  4. Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore:

    • A significant religious site that dates back to early Christianity, featuring beautiful architectural elements.

Santa Maria Capua Vetere continues to be an important historical and archaeological site, attracting scholars and tourists interested in exploring the remnants of its illustrious past.