Discover the place
The Sele River
The Sele rises in the municipality of Caposele. Waters from the area around Monte Cervialto reach the Sanità spring near Monte Paflagone, at about 420 metres above sea level. Much of the spring water is diverted into the Apulian aqueduct, leaving the upper river smaller than it was in earlier centuries. Roman river ports attest to its former navigability.
After sustained campaigning by local environmental groups, water continues along the riverbed. The Sele gains considerably more flow near Contursi Terme from numerous springs, some of them thermal, and from the Tanagro, its main tributary. Other tributaries include the Acerra, Acquabianca, Calore Lucano, Tenza and Trigento.
Near Contursi Terme there are riverside areas used for recreation. At Persano the river supports a protected wetland habitat, notably associated with the otter. This is an important stop for visitors interested in nature and birdlife; check current access arrangements before visiting.
Downstream the Sele crosses the fertile agricultural plain that bears its name. Farming and other human activities affect the river here. It reaches the Tyrrhenian Sea near Paestum and its archaeological sites.
