Paestum

Why Paestum is special
It boasts three of the best-preserved Doric temples in the world. They stand majestically, despite being about 2,500 years old.

Pronunciation
Visitors frequently mispronounce Paestum
The correct pronunciation is Pest'm

Paestum's celebrated etemples
The big three

• Apollo (see photo)
  Also named the Temple of Neptune (Poseidon). This is the best preserved of the three monuments.
  
• Ceres
  Also known as the Temple of Athena.
  
• Hera
  Also called the Basilica. It is the oldest of three structures.

How Paestum compares with Pompeii and Herculaneum
Similar but different

• Sightseeing pros and cons
  Paestum lacks the interesting city street scenes of Pompeii and Herculaneum, but outshines them with its imposing temples.
  
• Damage by Vesuvius
  Paestum was less affected than Pompeii and Herculaneum (also both Hillman Wonders) by the famous Mt. Vesuvius eruption of 79 AD.

More Paestum tips and insights
Other major Paestum ruins
Four of the best are the Roman Forum, the amphitheatre, the town's defensive walls, and the museum. Others await to see the light of day as most of the vast Paestum site has yet to be excavated.

History in brief
The ancient city was founded by Greek colonists in the 7th century BC. In 273 AD, it became a Roman colony and was given its current name, Paestum.

Nearest major city
This wonder is less than 100 kilometers (60 miles) from Naples, making it a convenient day trip.

Location in Italy