Amalfi Coast minor town
ATRANI
Picturesque fishing village, isolated from the traffic, Atrani is the smallest municipality in the whole Southern Italy. The typical white houses, with balconies full of flowers, form a cascade along the ledges of the surrounding hills (Mount Civita towards East and the Mount Aureo towards West), interspersed with lemon groves, in the valley of the river Dragone, as far as the beach. There are no certain traces about the origins of the town's name: according to some, in fact, it derives from the Latin word "atrum" (dark, with reference to its particular geographical location), according to others from an ancient Greek settlement (Atranes).
From an urban point of view, Atrani preserves a typical medieval town structure with narrow streets and alleys, mostly covered by vaults and arches, which wedge among the houses and then intersect in a square or in a wide stretch. Piazzetta Umberto I, at few steps from the beach and surrounded by a typical block of houses, for its fresh and lively atmosphere brings to mind the well-known square in Capri.
Atrani, like all the other towns of the Amalfi Coast, was the residence of noble Roman patricians, evidenced by the sumptuous villas that archaeological excavations are bringing to light. It was mentioned for the first time in a letter of Pope Gregory the Great, in 596.
During the time of the Maritime Republic of Amalfi, Atrani was the residence of local nobles and the ancient Church of San Salvatore de' Birecto was the place where the Doges were crowned with a ducal cap.
Among the most important historical and architectural monuments, worth of mention are:
- the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, built in the XIII century on the ruins of an ancient medieval fortress as a vote to thank the Saint for having liberated the area from the Saracen occupation. Rebuilt several times in later centuries, at present it features a Baroque style, with an elegant glazed dome and a square bell tower in dark tufa. Inside important paintings are preserved, including "L'incredulità di San Tommaso", masterpiece of the artist of Salerno, Andrea Sabatini, and valuable sculptures.
- the Church of San Salvatore de' Birecto, built in the X century with a square plan and preceded by an elegant portico. The current façade with the clock and the spectacular staircase was designed during the Baroque period. At the time of the ancient Marine Republic of Amalfi it served as Palatine Chapel: here, in fact, the Doges were elected, crowned and buried. Inside it features a fine marble Byzantine pluteus of the end of the XI century, a tombstone of a noblewoman of Atrani (XIV century), and a portal in bronze, forged in Constantinople in 1087 on request of the nobleman Pantaleone Viaretta, the same who 20 years earlier donated the bronze portal to the Cathedral in Amalfi.
- the Church of the Madonna del Carmine, built in the early XVII century, features a simple façade flanked by a fine bell tower in Moorish style. The interior, characterized by one nave plan with decorated marble floors, preserves an organ with a wooden balcony, a XV century fresco depicting the Madonna on the main altar and, during the Christmas period, it features an XVIII century nativity scene, whose shepherds are a faithful reproduction of the inhabitants of Atrani, at the time when the statuettes were commissioned.
- the Church of Santa Maria del Bando, built in the X century on top of Mount Aureo, under the Torre dello Ziro. The name derives, according to local traditions, to the fact that the Virgin Mary granted the grace of a man unjustly condemned to be hanged, an event depicted in the XV century fresco surmounted on the altar. For the historians, instead, the name derives from the fact that here, in the Republican period, edicts and judgments were proclaimed. Inside a Roman burial urn is preserved.
- The Church of San Michele Arcangelo (XI-XII century), built in a cavity of Mount Civita and used as a cemetery until 1927.
SCALA
Located opposite Ravello, Scale is surely the oldest centre of Amalfi Coast. In fact local historian suppose when the Romans arrived the village had been already founded. The imposing building of the Duomo (S. Lorenzo) faces the main Piazza, in Romanesque style, it was built on the same place where a pre-existent church was . The actual aspect is the result of many transformations. The tourist visiting it can appreciate many works of art as the Mitre. It was donated by Charles of Anjou . The ceiling and the transept were decorated by Antonio Cacciapuoti in 1748. The high altar and the Episcopal throne are in baroque style. The crypt with the ceiling enriched with a unique decoration displays the sepulcher of Marinella Rufolo realized by the will of her husband Antonio Coppola. …a sarcophagus supported by some statues which represent the virtues of Marinella. The artist has created a procession with the Virgin, the Angels and the Apostles. Perhaps by a disciple of Tino di Camaino. The altar has a wooden crucifix, it's a group composed by the Christ with a crown, the Virgin and S. John. (xiii – xiv th century).
PONTONE
This small village was described as a museum-village and helds some treasures of the past. The pristine name was Scalella, the small Scala. The ruins of the church of S. Eustachio dominate the landscape. .the Torre (tower) dello Ziro is the extreme point. According the legend, here the queen Giovanna d'Aragon was locked here in 1510. The tour belonged to the defense system of the old maritime republic
MINORI
Famous residential area of the nobles already in the Roman times, as evidenced by the archaeological discovery of an ancient villa of the I century, Minori, the ancient "Reghinna Minor" (to distinguish it from nearby "Reghinna Major", the current Maiori), like all other towns of the Amalfi Coast, followed the fortunes of the ancient Maritime Republic of Amalfi and was also a Bishop seat from 987. Over the centuries, the strength of waters of the Reginna river contributed to the growth of flourishing activities, such as mills and paper mills. The village is spread throughout the valley, with numerous districts that cling along the ridges of the surrounding hills, where man built terraces, mainly cultivated with lemons and grapes, from where it is possible to enjoy a unique view over the entire coastline. Minori has recently been proclaimed with the title of "City of taste", as since the XVI century, the local inhabitants devoted themselves to the production of hand-made pastas, refining the grain imported from Salerno. In the recent years, due to the difficulty to trace natural products and thanks to the exceptional creativity of the local artisans, the production of these special pastas has been encouraged, along with the preparation of other local products such as various liqueurs (famous "limoncello", or flavored with mandarin, wild strawberries or dill) and fresh cakes and pastries, that in a short time, have become famous not only at national levels. During the eno-gastronomic event "Gusta Minori", held in the first weeks of September, a theatrical theme itinerary is combined to the tasting of the typical specialties of Minori .
Pearl of the Amalfi Coast, rich in history and architectural treasures and natural wonders, there are many sites of interest that can inspire awe and admiration to those that visit them:
- the Maritime archaeological Villa (of the I century A.D.), a splendid example of Roman construction, discovered in 1932; it still retains traces of a "peristilium", of a "viridarium" and of a "suspensurae" with remains of its water heating system and some mosaics. Inside it features an "Antiquarium" that exposes most of the finds from the Roman period found both here and in the neighboring towns, as well as artifacts found underwater at sea.
- the Basilica of Santa Trofimena, in late XVIII century style, was built over an existing temple, which today houses the crypt. It is flanked by a square bell tower in Neoclassical style. The structure is divided into three naves and houses valuable paintings and sculptures, and an altarpiece of the Crucifixion by Marco Pino da Siena (XVI century) and an episcopal throne in marble. In an urn of alabaster are the remains of Santa Trofimena, a Sicilian martyr, that, the traditions tell, were found on the beach of Minori between the VI and VII centuries;
- the bell tower of the Annunciation (XI century), in the homonymous district, located about 150 meters above sea level, surrounded by vineyards and lemon groves, in Arab-Norman style; it is the last witness of the ancient Church of the Annunciation, demolished in 1950 because of its instable conditions. From the ruins of the church, it is possible to recognize the two apses and the remains of a fresco depicting St. Michael.
- the Convent and the Church of St. Nicholas (XI century), (please see walks section)
- the Church of Saints Gennaro and Giuliano, in the district of Villamena, built in Baroque style.
- the Church of Saint Lucia, dating from the X century, which preserves inside a Baroque altar, an engraved wooden choir stand and the tomb of the founder, Giovanni Simone Palumbo, in white marble with black marble decorations.
- Tower Mezzacapo in Torricella, situated along the main road SS 163 "Amalfitana", on the border of the town limits between Maiori and Minori. Since the Viceroy era, it had defensive and sighting purposes. It is part of the complex of the Castle Miramare (or Mezzacapo, named after the family who had it built), which vaguely resembles the castles of the Loire;
MAIORI
Located at the mouth of the valley of Tramonti, according to ancient tradition, Maiori was founded by the Etruscan Lucumone Reghinna: the ancient name of the town was Reghinna Major (to distinguish it from nearby Reghinna Minor, at present Minori). Today the ancient town's name still derives from the name of the stream that runs through the town - Reginna - which also give its name to the main high street, "Corso Reginna". Like other countries of the Amalfi Coast, Maiori was part of the possessions of the ancient maritime republic of Amalfi and the town became the seat of Arsenals, Admiralty, Customs and Salt deposit. It was sacked by the Pisani in 1268, bitter enemies of the entire Coast. Under the reign of Queen Giovanna and of her successor Charles III of Durazzo, there was an evident economic recovery that culminated with the establishment of the first paper mills in the XVI and the XVII centuries. The local historians narrate that off the coast of Capo d'Orso in 1528 there was a clash between the French and the Spanish armadas. In 1662 King Philip IV appointed Maiori as a royal city.
In more recent times, the town jumped to the headlines for being the setting chosen by the famous neo-realist director Roberto Rosellini, for his cult movies: "Paisà" in 1946, "The Miracle" (the second episode of the film "L'Amore" - Love) in 1948, "La macchina ammazzacattivi" (The machine that kills the Bad) in 1952 and" Journey to Italy "in 1953. Nowadays, during the "Rossellini film festival", Maiori turns into a movie set, where new emerging directors screen short films that are judged by a panel of experts.
Not to be missed:
- The Collegiate Church of Santa Maria a Mare, dating from the XIII century and remodeled several times in later centuries, is located on the top of the hill Torina on the ruins of an ancient fortress. Formerly dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel, following the discovery at sea in 1204, of a miraculous wooden Byzantine statue of the Madonna, wrapped in a bale of cotton, it was decided to entitle the church to the Virgin. The interior is divided into three naves of which the central one features a beautiful coffered ceiling, artwork of the Neapolitan artist Alessandro De Fulco. Other valuables are featured by paintings and altarpieces depicted by local artists, as well as the precious organ, a superb example of craftsman work of the master Zeno Fedeli from Foligno.
- The Church and Convent of San Francesco, destroyed several times over the centuries by storms and also during the raids of the pirates of Mohammed II. It was rebuilt in the XV century. It currently presents a Rococo style, with a fine carved chorus in walnut, a statue of the Saint that depicts the moment he received the stigmata, and paintings of extraordinary craftsmanship and remarkable side altars. In the attached convent cloister some scenes for the film "Paisà" were filmed by the famous film director Roberto Rossellini.
- The Abbey of Santa Maria de 'Olearia, which dates from the X century and is situated along the main road (S.S. 163) in the direction of Salerno. Built in the den of a cave, it is a rare and valuable record of architecture of the early Middle Ages. It consists of three overlapping circle shaped caverns: the crypt or catacomb (on the lowest level), the main chapel with two aisles (on the intermediate) and, finally, a chapel dedicated to Saint Nicholas ( on the highest).
- the Shrine of Madonna dell'Avvocata, on the summit of Mount Falesio, built after the apparition of the Virgin to a local shepherd, Gabriele Cinnamo, who asked him to build here an altar in her honor.
- the Church of St. James in Platea, built in the XIII century;
- the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, in the homonymous village;
- the Church of St. Martino in the village of Vecite, built in a Romanesque style;
- the Castle of San Nicola de Thoro Plano, built by Duke Piccolomini. A fortified garrison built to protect the population from the continuous raids;
- the Miramare Castle (or Mezzacapo), located on a rocky outcrop in area Torricella, on the border between Maiori and Minori, topped by towers with conical spires;
- Palazzo Mezzacapo, a renaissance-style building, now seat of the Town Hall, with adjoining XVIII century garden, built in the shape of the Cross of Malta;
CETARA
Fishing town with a busy fishing port, built at the feet of the slopes of Mount Falesio, Cetara developed from the IX century, when it became the settlement of a colony of Saracens. The inhabitants participated actively in the affairs of the ancient Marine Republic of Amalfi, and was under the jurisdiction of the Benedictine Abbey of Cava de' Tirreni for many centuries.
The entire economy of the village revolves around its maritime traditions: the fleet of Cetara is one of the most active of the Mediterranean Sea, specialized in fishing, processing and preserving tuna and anchovies. A recently rediscovered culinary delicacy to be tasted is the salted anchovy sauce, an amber colored seasoning for pasta dishes, produced since ancient times and that derives from the fermentation of anchovy in small barrels of oak or chestnut (also known as terzigni), a descendant of the Romans "garum".
Even the town's name reflects its intimate relationship with the sea and fishing. Cetara, in fact, seems to derive from "cetaria" (tuna fish) or "cetari" (sellers of large fish).
Among the most valuable monuments of art and history, not to miss:
- the Viceroy Tower, which dominates the East side of the beach of Cetara, built by the Anjou and later strengthened by the Aragonese to defend the population against the continuous attacks of the pirates.
- the Church entitled to St. Peter the Apostle, built in the IX century during the expulsion of the Saracens by the Normans of Salerno.
- the Church and Convent of San Francesco, built in the XIV century. The Church features a single nave and preserves inside frescoes and paintings of great value, such as the "Deposition" by Marco Benincasa, and one that features Suor Orsola Benincasa, a nun of local origins who founded the Congregation of the Teatine Sisters of the Immaculate Conception;
- the Church of Our Lady of Constantinople, dating from the XIX century and partially rebuilt in 1921, after the disastrous flood of 1910. The graceful bell tower is from a later period.
VIETRI SUL MARE
The gate of the Amalfi Coast opens at Vietri. It's a village dominated by the majolica dome of the church of S. John the Baptist. It famous and well-known for its ceramics The drawings show the local life and culture, the landing of the pirates and the religious and popular festivals. It's at 3 kilometers from Salerno , Vietri dominates the Bonea Valley .
Vietri was an Etruscan center called Marcina. Then it was submitted by the Samnites, the Lucaniens, the Romans. It acquired importance at the time of the Roman Empire for the commerce and fishing. It was pillaged and destroyed by the Vandals and those who survived found a shelter on the Mount Castello. . It was chosen by the Lombard prince Grimoaldo as summer residence. It was very often pillaged by the Saracins (Arab pirates) . Today as the past this village is known for the art of ceramics. The shops displays their colors, subjects and new techniques…
The church of S. John the Baptist (X century) dominates the territory. It underwent many restoration works (the most important occurred in 1657 and 1732). To notice a fresco by Andrea Sabatini da Salerno with the Pieta, a Virgin of Graces, S. Peter and S. Paul. The ceiling is decorated with some canvases by un unknown artist depicting some episodes of the life of S. John the Baptist.
Vietri Hamlets :
Marina di Vietri is close to the sea, with the Church of S. Antonio and the convent (1607). Built on the ruins of a pagan temple. A statue of Priape (god of the fecundity) was found. A tower is a clear evidence of the past, they were built to protect the territory by the attacks . Two rocks are known as ‘the two brothers of Vietri).
Molina is another village depending on Vietri. Some mills were built because of the presence of three rivers as Bonea, Summonte and Tulimei . Raito is on the top of a hill. The church of Santa Maria delle Grazie dominates the heart of this charming village.
Fuenti - A port was here until the XVIII century used both by the Etruscans and Saracins. This village belonged to the territory of the marine Republic of Amalfi. (it was destroyed by a landslide in XII century)
Praiano
Praiano is a small, beautiful village that seems to ignore the notoriety and charm of all the others villages of the coast line as Positano. It is dominated by the majolica dome of S. Luca's Church with the façade looking towards Capri. The road crosses the village as a snake: the houses, the shops and the hotels seem to invade the road together with the maritime pines. The village is divided in two parts by the main national road. The sea is reachable trough long flights of stairs crossing scented lemon gardens. For many people Praiano is a real piece of paradise on earth!
Conca de Marini
Conca dei Marini is a small fishing village far 4 km from Amalfi: Conca has an upper part on the hill and a lower part on the sea, a small beach with colored homes and pretty church reachable through a long flight of stairs to get it. It seems that the local fishermen were very agile and excellent navigators. Close to the village there is the Emerald Grotto. The name of the grotto is due to the color of the water, a deep green. An underwater tunnel allows the sunlight to penetrate the grotto giving it a unique color. Originally the grotto was not invaded by the water .In 1932 a fishermen from Vettica Luigi Buonocore while escaping a sea storm found a shelter in this spot. A hole attracted his attention but he was so taken when he saw inside…the show was so wonderful that under a rainfall he rowed to Amalfi to tell about his discovery.
Furore Fjord
This is a large gorge cut into the rock, dug out by a torrent, it's waters cascading down from the table-land of Agerola. The rocks steeply sloping down, the roar of the sea in the gorge, the deep shadow, the contrast created by the different and fantastic colors of the landscape make this valley a very charming corner. Here we find the most peculiar set of houses in the whole coast: just five or six gathered on a steep slope and crossed by winding steps, appearing like a village in miniature. The village was the first pier of Amalfi. Here the ships arrived and the slaves with the goods on the back, walking up hundreds of stairs got Amalfi.
See all
Picturesque fishing village, isolated from the traffic, Atrani is the smallest municipality in the whole Southern Italy. The typical white houses, with balconies full of flowers, form a cascade along the ledges of the surrounding hills (Mount Civita towards East and the Mount Aureo towards West), interspersed with lemon groves, in the valley of the river Dragone, as far as the beach. There are no certain traces about the origins of the town's name: according to some, in fact, it derives from the Latin word "atrum" (dark, with reference to its particular geographical location), according to others from an ancient Greek settlement (Atranes).
From an urban point of view, Atrani preserves a typical medieval town structure with narrow streets and alleys, mostly covered by vaults and arches, which wedge among the houses and then intersect in a square or in a wide stretch. Piazzetta Umberto I, at few steps from the beach and surrounded by a typical block of houses, for its fresh and lively atmosphere brings to mind the well-known square in Capri.
Atrani, like all the other towns of the Amalfi Coast, was the residence of noble Roman patricians, evidenced by the sumptuous villas that archaeological excavations are bringing to light. It was mentioned for the first time in a letter of Pope Gregory the Great, in 596.
During the time of the Maritime Republic of Amalfi, Atrani was the residence of local nobles and the ancient Church of San Salvatore de' Birecto was the place where the Doges were crowned with a ducal cap.
Among the most important historical and architectural monuments, worth of mention are:
- the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, built in the XIII century on the ruins of an ancient medieval fortress as a vote to thank the Saint for having liberated the area from the Saracen occupation. Rebuilt several times in later centuries, at present it features a Baroque style, with an elegant glazed dome and a square bell tower in dark tufa. Inside important paintings are preserved, including "L'incredulità di San Tommaso", masterpiece of the artist of Salerno, Andrea Sabatini, and valuable sculptures.
- the Church of San Salvatore de' Birecto, built in the X century with a square plan and preceded by an elegant portico. The current façade with the clock and the spectacular staircase was designed during the Baroque period. At the time of the ancient Marine Republic of Amalfi it served as Palatine Chapel: here, in fact, the Doges were elected, crowned and buried. Inside it features a fine marble Byzantine pluteus of the end of the XI century, a tombstone of a noblewoman of Atrani (XIV century), and a portal in bronze, forged in Constantinople in 1087 on request of the nobleman Pantaleone Viaretta, the same who 20 years earlier donated the bronze portal to the Cathedral in Amalfi.
- the Church of the Madonna del Carmine, built in the early XVII century, features a simple façade flanked by a fine bell tower in Moorish style. The interior, characterized by one nave plan with decorated marble floors, preserves an organ with a wooden balcony, a XV century fresco depicting the Madonna on the main altar and, during the Christmas period, it features an XVIII century nativity scene, whose shepherds are a faithful reproduction of the inhabitants of Atrani, at the time when the statuettes were commissioned.
- the Church of Santa Maria del Bando, built in the X century on top of Mount Aureo, under the Torre dello Ziro. The name derives, according to local traditions, to the fact that the Virgin Mary granted the grace of a man unjustly condemned to be hanged, an event depicted in the XV century fresco surmounted on the altar. For the historians, instead, the name derives from the fact that here, in the Republican period, edicts and judgments were proclaimed. Inside a Roman burial urn is preserved.
- The Church of San Michele Arcangelo (XI-XII century), built in a cavity of Mount Civita and used as a cemetery until 1927.
SCALA
Located opposite Ravello, Scale is surely the oldest centre of Amalfi Coast. In fact local historian suppose when the Romans arrived the village had been already founded. The imposing building of the Duomo (S. Lorenzo) faces the main Piazza, in Romanesque style, it was built on the same place where a pre-existent church was . The actual aspect is the result of many transformations. The tourist visiting it can appreciate many works of art as the Mitre. It was donated by Charles of Anjou . The ceiling and the transept were decorated by Antonio Cacciapuoti in 1748. The high altar and the Episcopal throne are in baroque style. The crypt with the ceiling enriched with a unique decoration displays the sepulcher of Marinella Rufolo realized by the will of her husband Antonio Coppola. …a sarcophagus supported by some statues which represent the virtues of Marinella. The artist has created a procession with the Virgin, the Angels and the Apostles. Perhaps by a disciple of Tino di Camaino. The altar has a wooden crucifix, it's a group composed by the Christ with a crown, the Virgin and S. John. (xiii – xiv th century).
PONTONE
This small village was described as a museum-village and helds some treasures of the past. The pristine name was Scalella, the small Scala. The ruins of the church of S. Eustachio dominate the landscape. .the Torre (tower) dello Ziro is the extreme point. According the legend, here the queen Giovanna d'Aragon was locked here in 1510. The tour belonged to the defense system of the old maritime republic
MINORI
Famous residential area of the nobles already in the Roman times, as evidenced by the archaeological discovery of an ancient villa of the I century, Minori, the ancient "Reghinna Minor" (to distinguish it from nearby "Reghinna Major", the current Maiori), like all other towns of the Amalfi Coast, followed the fortunes of the ancient Maritime Republic of Amalfi and was also a Bishop seat from 987. Over the centuries, the strength of waters of the Reginna river contributed to the growth of flourishing activities, such as mills and paper mills. The village is spread throughout the valley, with numerous districts that cling along the ridges of the surrounding hills, where man built terraces, mainly cultivated with lemons and grapes, from where it is possible to enjoy a unique view over the entire coastline. Minori has recently been proclaimed with the title of "City of taste", as since the XVI century, the local inhabitants devoted themselves to the production of hand-made pastas, refining the grain imported from Salerno. In the recent years, due to the difficulty to trace natural products and thanks to the exceptional creativity of the local artisans, the production of these special pastas has been encouraged, along with the preparation of other local products such as various liqueurs (famous "limoncello", or flavored with mandarin, wild strawberries or dill) and fresh cakes and pastries, that in a short time, have become famous not only at national levels. During the eno-gastronomic event "Gusta Minori", held in the first weeks of September, a theatrical theme itinerary is combined to the tasting of the typical specialties of Minori .
Pearl of the Amalfi Coast, rich in history and architectural treasures and natural wonders, there are many sites of interest that can inspire awe and admiration to those that visit them:
- the Maritime archaeological Villa (of the I century A.D.), a splendid example of Roman construction, discovered in 1932; it still retains traces of a "peristilium", of a "viridarium" and of a "suspensurae" with remains of its water heating system and some mosaics. Inside it features an "Antiquarium" that exposes most of the finds from the Roman period found both here and in the neighboring towns, as well as artifacts found underwater at sea.
- the Basilica of Santa Trofimena, in late XVIII century style, was built over an existing temple, which today houses the crypt. It is flanked by a square bell tower in Neoclassical style. The structure is divided into three naves and houses valuable paintings and sculptures, and an altarpiece of the Crucifixion by Marco Pino da Siena (XVI century) and an episcopal throne in marble. In an urn of alabaster are the remains of Santa Trofimena, a Sicilian martyr, that, the traditions tell, were found on the beach of Minori between the VI and VII centuries;
- the bell tower of the Annunciation (XI century), in the homonymous district, located about 150 meters above sea level, surrounded by vineyards and lemon groves, in Arab-Norman style; it is the last witness of the ancient Church of the Annunciation, demolished in 1950 because of its instable conditions. From the ruins of the church, it is possible to recognize the two apses and the remains of a fresco depicting St. Michael.
- the Convent and the Church of St. Nicholas (XI century), (please see walks section)
- the Church of Saints Gennaro and Giuliano, in the district of Villamena, built in Baroque style.
- the Church of Saint Lucia, dating from the X century, which preserves inside a Baroque altar, an engraved wooden choir stand and the tomb of the founder, Giovanni Simone Palumbo, in white marble with black marble decorations.
- Tower Mezzacapo in Torricella, situated along the main road SS 163 "Amalfitana", on the border of the town limits between Maiori and Minori. Since the Viceroy era, it had defensive and sighting purposes. It is part of the complex of the Castle Miramare (or Mezzacapo, named after the family who had it built), which vaguely resembles the castles of the Loire;
MAIORI
Located at the mouth of the valley of Tramonti, according to ancient tradition, Maiori was founded by the Etruscan Lucumone Reghinna: the ancient name of the town was Reghinna Major (to distinguish it from nearby Reghinna Minor, at present Minori). Today the ancient town's name still derives from the name of the stream that runs through the town - Reginna - which also give its name to the main high street, "Corso Reginna". Like other countries of the Amalfi Coast, Maiori was part of the possessions of the ancient maritime republic of Amalfi and the town became the seat of Arsenals, Admiralty, Customs and Salt deposit. It was sacked by the Pisani in 1268, bitter enemies of the entire Coast. Under the reign of Queen Giovanna and of her successor Charles III of Durazzo, there was an evident economic recovery that culminated with the establishment of the first paper mills in the XVI and the XVII centuries. The local historians narrate that off the coast of Capo d'Orso in 1528 there was a clash between the French and the Spanish armadas. In 1662 King Philip IV appointed Maiori as a royal city.
In more recent times, the town jumped to the headlines for being the setting chosen by the famous neo-realist director Roberto Rosellini, for his cult movies: "Paisà" in 1946, "The Miracle" (the second episode of the film "L'Amore" - Love) in 1948, "La macchina ammazzacattivi" (The machine that kills the Bad) in 1952 and" Journey to Italy "in 1953. Nowadays, during the "Rossellini film festival", Maiori turns into a movie set, where new emerging directors screen short films that are judged by a panel of experts.
Not to be missed:
- The Collegiate Church of Santa Maria a Mare, dating from the XIII century and remodeled several times in later centuries, is located on the top of the hill Torina on the ruins of an ancient fortress. Formerly dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel, following the discovery at sea in 1204, of a miraculous wooden Byzantine statue of the Madonna, wrapped in a bale of cotton, it was decided to entitle the church to the Virgin. The interior is divided into three naves of which the central one features a beautiful coffered ceiling, artwork of the Neapolitan artist Alessandro De Fulco. Other valuables are featured by paintings and altarpieces depicted by local artists, as well as the precious organ, a superb example of craftsman work of the master Zeno Fedeli from Foligno.
- The Church and Convent of San Francesco, destroyed several times over the centuries by storms and also during the raids of the pirates of Mohammed II. It was rebuilt in the XV century. It currently presents a Rococo style, with a fine carved chorus in walnut, a statue of the Saint that depicts the moment he received the stigmata, and paintings of extraordinary craftsmanship and remarkable side altars. In the attached convent cloister some scenes for the film "Paisà" were filmed by the famous film director Roberto Rossellini.
- The Abbey of Santa Maria de 'Olearia, which dates from the X century and is situated along the main road (S.S. 163) in the direction of Salerno. Built in the den of a cave, it is a rare and valuable record of architecture of the early Middle Ages. It consists of three overlapping circle shaped caverns: the crypt or catacomb (on the lowest level), the main chapel with two aisles (on the intermediate) and, finally, a chapel dedicated to Saint Nicholas ( on the highest).
- the Shrine of Madonna dell'Avvocata, on the summit of Mount Falesio, built after the apparition of the Virgin to a local shepherd, Gabriele Cinnamo, who asked him to build here an altar in her honor.
- the Church of St. James in Platea, built in the XIII century;
- the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, in the homonymous village;
- the Church of St. Martino in the village of Vecite, built in a Romanesque style;
- the Castle of San Nicola de Thoro Plano, built by Duke Piccolomini. A fortified garrison built to protect the population from the continuous raids;
- the Miramare Castle (or Mezzacapo), located on a rocky outcrop in area Torricella, on the border between Maiori and Minori, topped by towers with conical spires;
- Palazzo Mezzacapo, a renaissance-style building, now seat of the Town Hall, with adjoining XVIII century garden, built in the shape of the Cross of Malta;
CETARA
Fishing town with a busy fishing port, built at the feet of the slopes of Mount Falesio, Cetara developed from the IX century, when it became the settlement of a colony of Saracens. The inhabitants participated actively in the affairs of the ancient Marine Republic of Amalfi, and was under the jurisdiction of the Benedictine Abbey of Cava de' Tirreni for many centuries.
The entire economy of the village revolves around its maritime traditions: the fleet of Cetara is one of the most active of the Mediterranean Sea, specialized in fishing, processing and preserving tuna and anchovies. A recently rediscovered culinary delicacy to be tasted is the salted anchovy sauce, an amber colored seasoning for pasta dishes, produced since ancient times and that derives from the fermentation of anchovy in small barrels of oak or chestnut (also known as terzigni), a descendant of the Romans "garum".
Even the town's name reflects its intimate relationship with the sea and fishing. Cetara, in fact, seems to derive from "cetaria" (tuna fish) or "cetari" (sellers of large fish).
Among the most valuable monuments of art and history, not to miss:
- the Viceroy Tower, which dominates the East side of the beach of Cetara, built by the Anjou and later strengthened by the Aragonese to defend the population against the continuous attacks of the pirates.
- the Church entitled to St. Peter the Apostle, built in the IX century during the expulsion of the Saracens by the Normans of Salerno.
- the Church and Convent of San Francesco, built in the XIV century. The Church features a single nave and preserves inside frescoes and paintings of great value, such as the "Deposition" by Marco Benincasa, and one that features Suor Orsola Benincasa, a nun of local origins who founded the Congregation of the Teatine Sisters of the Immaculate Conception;
- the Church of Our Lady of Constantinople, dating from the XIX century and partially rebuilt in 1921, after the disastrous flood of 1910. The graceful bell tower is from a later period.
VIETRI SUL MARE
The gate of the Amalfi Coast opens at Vietri. It's a village dominated by the majolica dome of the church of S. John the Baptist. It famous and well-known for its ceramics The drawings show the local life and culture, the landing of the pirates and the religious and popular festivals. It's at 3 kilometers from Salerno , Vietri dominates the Bonea Valley .
Vietri was an Etruscan center called Marcina. Then it was submitted by the Samnites, the Lucaniens, the Romans. It acquired importance at the time of the Roman Empire for the commerce and fishing. It was pillaged and destroyed by the Vandals and those who survived found a shelter on the Mount Castello. . It was chosen by the Lombard prince Grimoaldo as summer residence. It was very often pillaged by the Saracins (Arab pirates) . Today as the past this village is known for the art of ceramics. The shops displays their colors, subjects and new techniques…
The church of S. John the Baptist (X century) dominates the territory. It underwent many restoration works (the most important occurred in 1657 and 1732). To notice a fresco by Andrea Sabatini da Salerno with the Pieta, a Virgin of Graces, S. Peter and S. Paul. The ceiling is decorated with some canvases by un unknown artist depicting some episodes of the life of S. John the Baptist.
Vietri Hamlets :
Marina di Vietri is close to the sea, with the Church of S. Antonio and the convent (1607). Built on the ruins of a pagan temple. A statue of Priape (god of the fecundity) was found. A tower is a clear evidence of the past, they were built to protect the territory by the attacks . Two rocks are known as ‘the two brothers of Vietri).
Molina is another village depending on Vietri. Some mills were built because of the presence of three rivers as Bonea, Summonte and Tulimei . Raito is on the top of a hill. The church of Santa Maria delle Grazie dominates the heart of this charming village.
Fuenti - A port was here until the XVIII century used both by the Etruscans and Saracins. This village belonged to the territory of the marine Republic of Amalfi. (it was destroyed by a landslide in XII century)
Praiano
Praiano is a small, beautiful village that seems to ignore the notoriety and charm of all the others villages of the coast line as Positano. It is dominated by the majolica dome of S. Luca's Church with the façade looking towards Capri. The road crosses the village as a snake: the houses, the shops and the hotels seem to invade the road together with the maritime pines. The village is divided in two parts by the main national road. The sea is reachable trough long flights of stairs crossing scented lemon gardens. For many people Praiano is a real piece of paradise on earth!
Conca de Marini
Conca dei Marini is a small fishing village far 4 km from Amalfi: Conca has an upper part on the hill and a lower part on the sea, a small beach with colored homes and pretty church reachable through a long flight of stairs to get it. It seems that the local fishermen were very agile and excellent navigators. Close to the village there is the Emerald Grotto. The name of the grotto is due to the color of the water, a deep green. An underwater tunnel allows the sunlight to penetrate the grotto giving it a unique color. Originally the grotto was not invaded by the water .In 1932 a fishermen from Vettica Luigi Buonocore while escaping a sea storm found a shelter in this spot. A hole attracted his attention but he was so taken when he saw inside…the show was so wonderful that under a rainfall he rowed to Amalfi to tell about his discovery.
Furore Fjord
This is a large gorge cut into the rock, dug out by a torrent, it's waters cascading down from the table-land of Agerola. The rocks steeply sloping down, the roar of the sea in the gorge, the deep shadow, the contrast created by the different and fantastic colors of the landscape make this valley a very charming corner. Here we find the most peculiar set of houses in the whole coast: just five or six gathered on a steep slope and crossed by winding steps, appearing like a village in miniature. The village was the first pier of Amalfi. Here the ships arrived and the slaves with the goods on the back, walking up hundreds of stairs got Amalfi.
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