Pertosa
The history of the town is linked with that of the famous site known as the Grotta dell'Angelo (cave of the angeli). In fact the name Pertosa comes from the Latin word pertusum which means "hole", "recess” Referring to the many caves in this area that have given shelter mankind since the Neolithic age. During the 11th century a group Benedictine monks reclaimed this area from the swamps and began extensive cultivation of olive trees. Many times in the course the centuries this area has been populated and then depopulated again until finally, the town was inhabited by citizens of the neighbouring Caggiano. Pertosa has been connected to Caggiano until was awarded autonomous "Comune" status in 1829. The most popular sights here are obviously the caves, interest both from an historical as well as a naturalistic point of view. Also of interest are the Churches of Santa Maria delle Grazie and Benedetto.
