Amalfi, a town of about 5,000 inhabitants, is located on a part of the coast called Costiera Amalfitana, about 50 km south of Naples.
The Cathedral of St. Andrew (Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea)
The Cathedral of St. Andrew is one of the most iconic sites in Amalfi. Built in the 10th century, the cathedral combines various architectural styles including Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque and Arabic. Its magnificent facade and imposing staircase dominate the main square, Piazza del Duomo. Inside the cathedral are the remains of Saint Andrew, making it an important place of pilgrimage. The cathedral also houses a treasury of valuable artefacts and a museum with historical exhibits.
Chiostro del Paradiso
The Chiostro del Paradiso, or Paradise Court, is a monastic garden adjacent to the Cathedral of St. Andrew. This magnificent monastic courtyard was built in the 13th century and served as a cemetery for important citizens of the city. The Chiostro del Paradiso is surrounded by elegant arches and columns in the style of Arab and Norman art. It is a peaceful and meditative place that offers a breathtaking view of the architecture and history of Amalfi.
Museo della Carta
Amalfi has a long tradition of papermaking. The Museo della Carta (Paper Museum) is dedicated to this craft. The museum is housed in a former paper mill dating back to the 13th century and offers visitors the opportunity to see the ancient machines and techniques used in the production of paper. The exhibition provides a fascinating insight into the history and development of the paper industry in Amalfi.
Arsenale della Repubblica
The Arsenale della Repubblica is a historic shipyard that served as a naval base for the Amalfi fleet during the Middle Ages. Today, the Arsenale has been converted into a museum where maritime artefacts, ship models and historical documents are on display, illustrating the glory and power of the maritime republic of Amalfi. A visit to the Arsenale della Repubblica is a great way to understand the importance of the navy in the city's history.
Torre dello Ziro
The Torre dello Ziro is an ancient watchtower that towers over Amalfi and offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding coastline. The tower was built in the 15th century as a defensive fortress against pirate raids. A visit to the Torre dello Ziro is a great way to experience the history of Amalfi while enjoying breathtaking views of the countryside.
Arco della Faenza
One of the lesser known but fascinating sites in this town is the Arco della Faenza.
This is an ancient archway that was originally part of a larger complex of buildings. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages, when Amalfi was an important trading centre and maritime republic. The arch was part of the city's infrastructure and served as a passage between different parts of the city. Its name "Faenza" probably refers to the town of Faenza in the Emilia-Romagna region, suggesting a possible trade link between the two cities.the arch is made of local stone and its surface is decorated with fine engravings and ornaments that reflect the artistic taste of the time. Although the arch is relatively small, its historical significance and aesthetic value make it one of the places of interest in Amalfi.
To the left of the Arco della Faenza, you can admire a typical artisanal nativity scene composed of stone houses and figurines that reproduce scenes of everyday life in the town.
Rione Vagliendola
Rione Vagliendola is an ancient district of Amalfi where you can find several historic churches such as the Church of San Biagio and the Church of San Lorenzo. This part of town is characterised by narrow streets, stone houses and charming squares. A walk through Rione Vagliendola is like a journey back in time, allowing you to experience the authentic atmosphere of old Amalfi.
Valle delle Ferriere
Valle delle Ferriere is a nature reserve located near Amalfi, famous for its magnificent waterfalls, lush vegetation and old iron mills. This picturesque area offers visitors the opportunity to walk and hike in the beautiful countryside. Valle delle Ferriere is also home to many rare plants and animals, making it an important place for nature lovers and eco-tourists.
