Amalfi
The oldest of the maritime republics gives its name to the entire Amalfi Coast: a charming place for culture and natural beauty.
Amalfi, the heart of the Amalfi Coast
The city of Amalfi is the beating heart of the Amalfi Coast, and is undeniably a highly sough-after destination for international tourists. Renowned worldwide for both its historical heritage, evident in every corner of the city, and its unique landscapes, crystal-clear sea, and culinary delights, Amalfi was once the most powerful of the ancient and legendary Maritime Republics, alongside Pisa, Genoa, and Venice. The city has much to offer visitors throughout the year, particularly during the beautiful summer months.
Its origins are uncertain, but it is believed to date back to pre-Roman times, although its emblem bears the inscription "Descendit ex patribus romanorum" (Descended from the Roman fathers). There are various theories regarding the origin of the name: it likely comes from the first colonists who arrived from Melfi, although legend has it that the city was named after the nymph Amalfi, loved by Hercules and buried in this place by the will of the gods.
A town with a longstanding maritime and commercial vocation, Amalfi in the 10th century was the only mercantile center on the Mediterranean shores to establish profitable trade relations with both the East and the Muslim Africa. It founded colonies and representative centers in Alexandria, Tunis, Cyprus, Byzantium, and even India. Amalfi reached its peak in the 11th century, a period during which the Amalfi Tables were drafted. These tables are the oldest maritime statutes in Italy, used throughout the Mediterranean area until the 16th century. A 17th-century paper copy of the Tabula de Amalpha is still preserved today in the city’s Civic Museum, located at the Ancient Arsenal of the Republic of Amalfi, the historic building where boats were traditionally built and repaired.
Amalfi can be reached by sea from both Salerno and Positano in 30 minutes, avoiding the road traffic and the cost of parking.
What to see and what to do in Amalfi?
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Cathedral, Cloister of Paradise, Crypt, and Sant'Andrea Fountain
Do not miss a visit to the Cathedral of Sant'Andrea, dedicated to the patron saint of Amalfi. This magnificent cathedral dating back to the 9th century, features Romanesque Arab-Norman style, with the Cloister of Paradise and its steep and majestic staircase of 62 steps, is the most famous monument and symbol of the city worldwide. The cathedral includes the adjacent Basilica of the Crucifix and the wonderful Crypt of Sant'Andrea, in Baroque style, where the saint's relics are preserved.
The square where the Cathedral stands majestically, dominating from above, is the famous Piazza Duomo. Here you will also find the Fountain of Sant'Andrea, also known as Fontana del Popolo (Fountain of the People), built in 1760. It features a marble statue of the apostle, with four marble angels at is base.
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Valley of the Mills, Valley of the Ferriere, and Paper Museum
Also worth visiting in the city are the Valley of the Mills and the Paper Museum, where the mills and paper mills of the Maritime Republic once stood. These were powered by the hydraulic energy from the waterfalls of the Canneto River. Since the Middle Ages, one of the city’s most thriving industries was the famous “Carta d’Amalfi” (Amalfi Paper), also known as Charta Bambagina, which was made from pulped rags and linen, cotton, and hemp scraps.
Another interesting excursion is to the Valley of the Ferriere, an extension of the Valley of the Mills. This nature reserve was once home to ironworks in the Middle Ages, where raw iron imported from the Island of Elba was processed. The valley is now renowned for its botanical significance, particularly for its population of Woodwardia radicans, a tree fern dating back 65 million years.
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Limoncello and Delicacies from the Amalfi Coast
In Amalfi, a leisurely stroll through the charming town is highly recommended. The narrow streets reveal glimpses of its glorious past, with numerous monuments and small churches interspersed with souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, cafés, and bars where you can enjoy excellent gelato, pastries, and the renowned Limoncello. This characteristic Amlafi Coast liqueur is made from the zest of IGP Costa d'Amalfi lemons, fragrant citrus fruits that grow abundantly in Amalfi coast.
From Amalfi's port, you can easily reach nearby coastal towns such as Positano, Minori, Maiori, and Cetara by sea in just a few minutes. The city of Salerno is also just a 35-minute ferry ride away.
