The 3 Most Amazing Peaks around Piaggine

A brief explanation of the patronage of 'MARY OF THE SNOW', which visitors don't encounter very often: This takes us far back in church history to the fourth/fifth century, and geographically to Rome. On August 5, 363, the so-called "miracle of the snow" occurred at the site where the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore now stands. That is to say, on that day, in the middle of summer, snow lay there in the morning because the Virgin Mary wished to have a church dedicated to her built on that spot. She conveyed this wish in a vision to a wealthy couple – who subsequently initiated and financed the construction – and to the Bishop of Rome, who at that time was Pope Liberius. The Roman church holds the rank of a patriarchal basilica (papal basilica) and is the origin of all churches and chapels with this patronage. In the liturgical calendar of the Catholic Church, August 5th, the feast day of the church's consecration (in the year 432 by Pope Sixtus III), is an optional memorial. Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome was the focus of international attention last year because Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday 2025, had chosen this church as his final resting place.

Experience is recommended for these routes.

Monte Puglie (sometimes called Cocuzzo delle Puglie) is a peak approximately 1,465–1,475 meters high located in Campania, within the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park. Known for its wild nature and expansive views, it can be reached via challenging hiking trails, often starting from Passo della Sentinella (San Rufo) or San Paolo di Teggiano, passing places such as Sella del Corticato and the Bosco Vetusto del Cozzo del Rosieddo. Here are the main details about Monte Puglie: Location and Characteristics: It is located in the province of Salerno. The relief features elongated ridges and, in some areas, beech forests. Hiking: The trails are generally considered difficult or for experts, with steep and sometimes exposed sections. A common route is the loop that passes Cozzo del Rosieddo (1,427 m) and Monte Puglie. Nearby points of interest: Sella del Corticato (1,026 m), Monte Motola, and Passo della Sentinella (980 m). Routes: From Passo della Sentinella: A loop of approximately 13 km with over 700 m of elevation gain, passing through wooded areas and ridges. From San Paolo di Teggiano: A route of approximately 11-12 km that climbs the southeast slope. History: The area has historically been a transit point, often associated with ancient transhumance and trade routes.

Monte Puglie (sometimes called Cocuzzo delle Puglie) is a peak approximately 1,465–1,475 meters high located in Campania, within the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park. Known for its wild nature and expansive views, it can be reached via challenging hiking trails, often starting from Passo della Sentinella (San Rufo) or San Paolo di Teggiano, passing places such as Sella del Corticato and the Bosco Vetusto del Cozzo del Rosieddo. Here are the main details about Monte Puglie: Location and Characteristics: It is located in the province of Salerno. The relief features elongated ridges and, in some areas, beech forests. Hiking: The trails are generally considered difficult or for experts, with steep and sometimes exposed sections.

Beautiful panoramic peak on the Vallo di Diano, challenging climb in many parts, but not very long. It is possible to carry the bike to the top, although for the last part you have to push. The effort will be amply repaid by the sublime view once you reach the top. The descent to the Fontanelle Refuge is difficult due to the presence of rocks and branches on the path, pay particular attention.

Monte Cervati with its 1899 meters is the highest peak in Cilento and the second in Campania. It can be reached by paths that start from Sanza, Piaggine or from Monte San Giacomo and offers 360-degree views of the Cilento National Park, Vallo di Diano and Alburni.

This peak is located at an altitude of 1,700 metres. The view is nothing short of majestic: you can admire the vast territory of the Cilento National Park, in particular the Vallo di Diano.

The Sanctuary of the Madonna del Cervato is located near the highest peak in Campania, Monte Cervati. The church is a pilgrimage destination, and in the month of July a procession is held that brings the statue of the Madonna della Neve here.