Discover Valva

Valva lies at the eastern foot of Monte Marzano, near Serra delle Rose, and overlooks the Sele Valley, bounded by the Monti Picentini range. The area is mostly mountainous and rich in flora and fauna. Historic buildings meet a distinctly mountainous setting in the town: when planning your trip, you can focus on cultural history, the townscape or nature.

Churches and Buildings in the Historic Center

At the heart of the historic center is the Chiesa Madre San Giacomo Apostolo. Dating from the 18th century, the church has three naves and Baroque portals. Inside, the elaborately crafted marble high altar is an important example of local religious architecture. Two distinct features take center stage in this building: its three-nave layout and the intricate craftsmanship of the altar.

The historic center is also home to the aristocratic Palazzo Marcelli, with the adjacent Chapel of Sant’Antonio, and a square tower dating from 1600 that houses the town clock. Another church in the upper Sele Valley is the Chiesa della Madonna degli Angeli. It stands on a site where a smaller building, founded in 1435, is believed to have once stood. This cautious account of the earlier building contrasts with the clearly identified architectural features of the Chiesa Madre.

Archaeological traces reach back much further: finds from the Greek period have been discovered in the Valva area. There are also numerous commemorative inscriptions and stones from the 1st century AD. These traces add another time layer to the town’s history, alongside the churches and buildings of the historic center.

The Villa d’Ayala di Valva complex includes a castle covering an area of about 600 square meters and reaching a height of approximately 20 meters. It has three floors and an attic; there is also a tower and an adjoining courtyard. The approximate dimensions and varied parts of the building give an impression of the castle’s size and layout.

Hiking Trails and Nature Around Valva

The Riserva Naturale Monti Eremita - Marzano near Valva offers numerous hiking trails, including CAI Trail No. 203, as well as views of the Sele Valley. The reserve is home to species including the Apennine wolf and peregrine falcon. The trails and wildlife offer different points of interest for travelers drawn to the mountain area.

The Grotta di Valva lies beneath a rocky outcrop and can be reached by a trail of about an hour. Check current trail conditions before setting out. The Grotta di San Michele offers a distinctive natural and cultural highlight: this impressive natural sanctuary dates from around the year 1000 and features stalactites and pools of clear water.

An Annual Event in August

The Sagra de La Taratella takes place every year from August 10 to 12 in the heart of the town center, in the former cellars of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. Visitors can sample Taratella, prepared according to a recipe passed down from one generation to the next. If you would like to plan your trip around the festival, check the dates in advance.

Valva therefore offers several distinct themes for a stay: sacred architecture and buildings in the historic center, archaeological evidence from different periods, and hiking trails and nature in the mountains. A visit during the Sagra adds an annual culinary event to the mix.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Rocca Cilento, Serramezzana, Roccadaspide, Corbara, Agnone Cilento, Roccapiemonte, Nocera Inferiore, Villammare.

For the main travel overview: Salerno.