Castelnuovo Cilento ed il suo artista geniale Le Guide di Paestum e Velia en

Castelnuovo Cilento is a little town, with few inhabitants, but rich in history and art. The name probably derives from the medieval latin word “Castellum novum”, or “Castrum novum”, to distinguish it from the older village lying on the same hill or in another place of the marshy plain.

The castle dates back to 1269 and is attributed to Guido d'Alemagna, a French knight. He came to Italy in the time of Charles of Anjou and became Lord of Castelnuovo. The castle was property of the French governors until 1496 and then Ferrante II of Aragon confiscated all the goods that passed to the Carafa family. In 1724 the Marquis Talamo Atenolfi became the owner of the fortress and let it be restored.

The visit of Castelnuovo offers an amazing view over the valley of river Alento.

Going through the alleys and narrow streets in the old town centre, you will find noble palaces, chapels and the church of Santa Maria Maddalena.

Guerino Galzerano (1922-2002) is the most typical historical "figure" of the town.

He was considered to be a brilliant artist and called "Gaudì of Cilento".

His story is really surprising!!!
 

He was native here, he was poor the whole life and he was a little bit foolish.

Galzerano was extravagant; he realized  different totems, items related to the peasant’s world and garden tools: everything was decorated with little, smooth stones or marble scale. He was able to create a fairy-tale atmosphere and sculptures of strong visual impact.