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PRINCIPATO CITRA

Volume 18 · 329 words · 1860 Edition

a province in the kingdom of Naples, bounded on the N.W. and N. by the provinces of Naples, Terra di Lavoro, and Principato Ultra; E. by that of Basilicata; S. and W. by the Mediterranean. Length from N.W. to S.E., about 80 miles; greatest breadth, 42 miles; area, 2265 square miles. The central chain of the Apennines runs along the eastern boundary, and seve- Principato ral branches from it extend into the interior. The greater part of the province is watered by the Sele and its affluents. This river rises in the Apennines near Conza, and flows S. and S.W. until it falls into the sea, not far from the ruins of Paestum. Its chief tributary is the Negro or Tanagro, which flows from the S.E. through the Val di Diano, and joins the main river from the left. Except this valley, and a level tract of country along the coast, the province is nearly all occupied with mountain ranges. These are for the most part well wooded, especially with chestnut trees. The soil of the valleys is generally rich and fertile; but the plains along the coast for some distance on both sides of the Sele are marshy and unhealthy. The valleys and slopes to the south of the ruins of Paestum, however, are of a different nature, and have been celebrated both in ancient and modern times for their fertile soil and delightful climate. The principal minerals of the province are copper, marble, and gypsum; and the most important articles of produce are timber, chestnuts, wine, oil, and fruits of various kinds. The principal live stock of the province are swine; and there are productive fisheries along the coast. Paper-making and weaving of woollen and linen fabrics are carried on. There is some trade in timber, dried fruits, hides, and pork. The province is divided into 4 districts, 44 arrondissements, and 165 communes. The capital is Salerno, on the gulf of the same name. Pop. (1856) 583,979.