SAN GIOVANNI A PIRO

Situated in a charming position overlooking the Gulf of Policastro, at about 450 metres above sea level amid the olive groves which abound on the slopes of Mount Bulagaria, the town was born in the year 1000 and its origins are closely connected with those of the nearby Basilian Abbey of St John the Baptist.
San Giovanni a Piro was an important Angioina stronghold during the Vespro wars (1282 – 1302) against the Aragonese. The town was twice plundered and destroyed by Turkish pirates: in 1534 and 1552. In an attempt to protect themselves from such incursions the villagers built defensive walls around the entire settlement. These walls originally enclosed a vast area which included the Basilian abbey: unfortunately they have now completely disappeared.
In 1828, together with Bosco, San Giovanni a Piro played an important part in the Cilento uprisings.
The old town center, which has preserved much its medieval layout almost intact, offers some interesting architectural features. Many of the houses which line its paved streets are decorated with fine portals and have old balconies enclosed with splendid wrought iron railings.
Attractions for the visitor include the Beati Palace, the mother church of St Peter and the church of St. Gaetano. The impressive Sanctuary of Pietrasanta lies a short distance from the town.