Set in the protected territoriy of the National Park of Cilento and Vallo of Diano, the area of Ascea-Velia has been integrated in the Biosphere of UNESCO. The coastline is of extraordinary beauty; in particular for its sandy shores of coarse particle-size (the sand, at every footstep, is soft and naturally clean as being dustless) and by a wide open crystal clear sea. The magnificence of the history and the wonder of the multiform landscapes of Elea-Velia continue today through the magical fascination of the ancient ruins of the town of Velia. Founded around 540 B.C. by the Greek Focei, it became the centre of culture and civility for all the western world. In Elea originated the Eleatic Philosophy School founded by the famous philosopher Parmenide. The Pink Door is a monumental example o of Greek round arch. Ascea offers many opportunities of entertainment as discos, sea sports, horse riding and numerous summer events organized along the splendid seaside promenade.