Die Gemeinden im Cilento

Probably founded by refugees from the destroyed city of Velia the town was, like many of its neighbours, inhabited by Basilian monks in the 8th century. The name Orria probably comes from horreum (meaning "wheat") one of the first crops to be grown extensively by the monks. The town was badly affected by the plague epidemic of 1656 which decimated its population. Orria's best known attraction is the suburb of Piano Vetrale, a perfectly preserved 7th century centre which evolved around an elegant piazza. Visitors can also admire the ancient fountain which, according to a local legend, gave water to quench the thirst of the Roman veterans who settled here in Piano Vetrale. Many buildings of the centre are embellished by characteristic mural paintings along the facade.