Die Gemeinden im Cilento

The first traces of Controne history can be found in Pezza where archaeologists have excavated a Greek temple with mosaic floors and numerous coins with the effigy of the sea god, Neptune. Controne's history is linked to that of Saracen pirates who, in the 9th century, forced the families of Paestum to seek refuge here contra elion, in the land "set against the sun - contra elion - hence "Controne”. In 1246 Frederick II demolished the whole town which was then rebuilt next to the Benedictine Church of San Nicola di Bari. From the 5th century onward, Controne was a feudal estate until it was finally declared sito reale, or royal possession, in 1768. The monastery has not survived. but the many artworks in contained have been moved to the Palazzo Baronale, which is now the municipal building. The ancient aqueduct that used to channel the water from the local springs to the mills of the area is still visible. Among the many buildings of interest is the Church of Santa Maria in Piazza San Donate».