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THE REGIONS OF ITALY

PLACES IN ITALY

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Amalfi

The Amalfi Coast, located in the southern part of Italy, is one of the most captivating and picturesque stretches of coastline in the world. This enchanting region, which lies in the province of Salerno in the Campania region, has been a beloved destination for travelers for centuries, attracting everyone from artists and writers to royalty and celebrities. Its allure lies not only in its breathtaking natural beauty but also in its rich history, vibrant culture, and the charm of its coastal towns and villages. The Amalfi Coast is characterized by its dramatic cliffs that plunge into the sparkling blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, creating a stunning contrast that has been the subject of countless paintings and photographs. The coastline is dotted with pastel-coloured villages that cling precariously to the steep slopes, connected by winding roads that offer panoramic views at every turn. Among these, the town of Amalfi, which gives the coast its name, is the heart and soul of the region. Amalfi was once a powerful maritime republic during the Middle Ages, and its influence can still be seen today in its impressive architecture and historical sites. The town’s most iconic landmark is the Cathedral of St. Andrew, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture with its striking striped facade, Moorish-inspired cloister, and grand staircase. The cathedral’s interior houses relics of St. Andrew, the patron saint of Amalfi, making it a significant religious site as well.

Beyond its historical significance, Amalfi is a town that embodies the leisurely, sun-soaked lifestyle that the Mediterranean is known for. The narrow streets of Amalfi are filled with charming shops selling local ceramics, handmade paper, and the region’s famous limoncello, a lemon liqueur that is a must-try for visitors. The town’s main square, Piazza del Duomo, is a lively hub where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy a coffee, a gelato, or simply to watch the world go by. The natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast is complemented by its lush terraced gardens and vineyards, which produce some of the region’s finest wines and olive oils. The steep terrain of the coastline has necessitated the cultivation of these products in small, carefully tended plots, giving the landscape a patchwork quilt appearance that is particularly striking from the sea. For those seeking adventure, the Amalfi Coast offers plenty of opportunities for exploration. The coastal road, known as the SS163 or Amalfi Drive, is one of the most scenic drives in the world, winding its way through cliffs and offering breathtaking views of the sea and the villages below. Hiking enthusiasts will find a network of trails that traverse the mountains and hillsides, offering panoramic views of the coastline and the chance to discover hidden coves and secluded beaches.

The Amalfi Coast is also a gateway to some of Italy’s most famous cultural and historical sites. The ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, are within easy reach, as is the vibrant city of Naples with its rich history and renowned cuisine. The nearby island of Capri, with its famous Blue Grotto and luxury boutiques, is another popular destination that can be easily accessed by boat. Amalfi, Italy, is a destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and cultural richness. Whether you are looking to relax on a sun-drenched terrace, explore ancient ruins, or simply soak in the atmosphere of a quintessential Italian coastal town, Amalfi and the surrounding coast have something to offer every traveller.

Worth a Visit

Photo 12, Photo taken on walk along Lungolago Cesare Battisti, Desenzano del Garda, Italy (September 2019)

Situated in the heart of the picturesque coastal town of Amalfi, the Church of San Benedetto is a hidden architectural and historical gem that reflects the religious and cultural richness of southern Italy. Although not as widely known as the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi), San Benedetto holds significant value as one of the town’s ancient ecclesiastical landmarks, embodying centuries of devotion, artistry, and tradition. The Church of San Benedetto was originally part of a Benedictine monastery founded during the medieval period, likely between the 10th and 12th centuries.

For more information about the
Church of San Benedetto, click the image.

Photo 12, Photo taken on walk along Lungolago Cesare Battisti, Desenzano del Garda, Italy (September 2019)

Piazza Flavio Gioia, located at the entrance to the historic centre of Amalfi, serves as both a symbolic and functional gateway to this renowned coastal town on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Named after the legendary maritime figure Flavio Gioia, who is often (though controversially) credited with perfecting the mariner’s compass in the 14th century, this square is a tribute to Amalfi’s rich seafaring legacy and its importance as one of the great maritime republics of medieval Italy. As one of the first places visitors encounter when arriving in Amalfi, Piazza Flavio Gioia offers an immediate sense of the town’s vibrant history and character.

For more information about the
Piazza Flavio Gioia ,click the image.

Photo 51, Photo taken in Duomo di Amalfi, Supportico Sant'Andrea, Amalfi, Italy (August 2018)

The Duomo di Amalfi, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, stands as one of the most iconic and historically significant landmarks on the Amalfi Coast. Located in the heart of the town of Amalfi, this magnificent cathedral dominates the central Piazza del Duomo with its striking staircase, ornate façade, and rich architectural blend of styles. It is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Amalfi’s religious devotion, artistic heritage, and powerful past as one of the medieval maritime republics of Italy. Dedicated to Saint Andrew the Apostle, whose relics are enshrined in the cathedral’s crypt, the Duomo has been a major spiritual centre since its founding in the 9th century.

For more information about the
Duomo di Amalfi click, the image.

Photo Gallery of Walk 1 – Via Pantaleone Comite to Via Lungomare dei Cavalieri
Approximately 1.16 km – 0.72 miles

The walk starts in – Via Pantaleone Comite – Piazza Municipio – Corso delle Repubbliche Marinare -MChiesa Corso delle Repubbliche Marinare – Corso delle Repubbliche Marinare – Piazza Flavio Gioia – Molo Darsena di Amalfi – Via Lungomare dei Cavalieri

Photo Gallery of Walk 2 – Piazza Duomo to Via delle Cartiere
Approximately 0.97 km – 0.60 miles

The walk starts in – Piazza Duomo – Fontana di Sant’Andrea, Piazza Duomo – Piazza Duomo – Via Lorenzo D’Amalfi – Salita Fra’ Gerardo Sasso – Via Lorenzo D’Amalfi – Via Pietro Capuano – Piazza della Spirito Santo – Via Cardinale Marino del Giudice – Via delle Cartiere