Castellabate is a charming village, developed around the fortress erected in 1123 by Costabile Gentilcore, from whom it takes its name. Five doors, staircases and narrow alleys lead you to the historic centre. It was sacked by the Saracens during the past: fortunately the inhabitants rejected attacks throwing stones and boiled oil. During the Middle Ages Castellabate controlled all commercial traffics (grain, oil and wine) along the Cilento coast. The coast were almost completely uninhabitated, due to the danger of Saracens pirates. The population moved along the coast only during the last century, thanks to the mild climate, the crystal-clear sea and the unique landscape. Castellabate, located between Paestum and Velia, is both one of the most important seaside resort of the Cilento coast and a town rich in naturalistic beauty set in Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park.