[2] A settlement called Castrum Cornutum (meaning: "Fortress of Cornutans") is documented in the 13th century: according to the Italian historian Giuseppe Maiese, it had been founded by colonists from Cornutum, an ancient city in Dalmatia.

In the 18th century the town changed its name to Vallo di Novi.

In 1806, during the French government of the Kingdom of Naples, it was made a district capital.

The town is located in the middle of the Cilento and its National Park, close to Gelbison mountain.

The municipality borders with Cannalonga, Castelnuovo Cilento, Ceraso, Gioi, Moio della Civitella, Novi Velia, and Salento.