Vietri sul Mare is particularly famous for its traditional ceramics, which have been made here for centuries. The colourful majolica (a specific type of pottery with an opaque tin glaze) decorates the facades of the houses, benches, fountains and the whole square, creating a unique atmosphere. The local ceramics are so famous that they are often referred to as "Vieter" and there are craft workshops at every turn.
What not to miss
The dominant feature of the town is the Church of St John the Baptist, with its typical majolica dome that glitters in the sun and is one of the iconic symbols of the area. Another place of interest is the Museo della Ceramica, housed in the Torre di Villa Guariglia, from where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the coast.
But be sure to visit Villa Comunale, a public park and one of the most beautiful viewing terraces on the Amalfi Coast. It is located in the centre of the town and is famous for its rich ceramic decoration. The whole area is literally lined with mosaics - from the benches to the columns to the railings. The ceramic motifs depict local landscapes, sea scenes, fishermen, mythological figures and symbols of Campania.
In addition to its famous ceramics and beautiful views, Vietri sul Mare offers unexpected corners worth exploring. Just venture off the main street and you'll come across a narrow stone staircase leading to a quietquiet corners with small chapels, colourful mosaics and old shops where time has almost stood still. The smell of lemon groves, the sea and freshly baked bread mingles in the air.
The beaches of Vietri
Marina di Vietri, the coastal part of the town, offers beautiful beaches with fine sand, a rarity on the rocky Amalfi coast. Here you will find small fishermen's houses and tavernas overlooking the sea, where you can enjoy fresh fish, pasta with lemon sauce or sweet sfogliatella.
Surroundings of Vietri sul Mare
Vietri sul Mare is also an ideal starting point for excursions along the coast. From here you can easily reach Salerno, where the majestic St. Matthew's Cathedral is worth a visit, or Amalfi and Ravello. If you're looking for something a little more unusual, you can trek along the old Sentiero dei Limoni path, which connects Vietri to other parts of the coast and passes between lemon orchards and old farms.
Although Vietri sul Mare is more unassuming than its famous neighbours, this is where its charm lies. It is a place where tradition combines with beautiful nature, where art becomes part of everyday life and where you can enjoy the true atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast without the crowds of tourists. If you want to experience authentic Italy while being carried away by the beauty of the coast, Vietri sul Mare will not disappoint you.
