Holiday in Amalfi
Discover the beauty of the culture and traditions of the capital of the Amalfi Coast, the first Marine RepublicYour holiday in Amalfi, must include a visit of the wonderful historic centre of this small seaside town, founded in roman times and famous since the IX century for being the first Marine Republic.
The Amafli Coast which takes its name from the town Amalfi and which is declared to be a world heritage site by Unesco, has lots to see for those on holiday in Campania.
“Duomo di Amalfi” and the Cloister of Paradise
The most characteristic monument in Amalfi is without a doubt the Duomo which, with its Arab façade and central position, is the ideal departure point to discover the rest of the town, a place where different cultures and traditions came together.
From the terrace of Hotel Amalfi you can admire the view of the bell tower of the Duomo di Amalfi, dedicated to the patron saint of the town, Sant’Andrea, who is celebrated on the 27 and 30 November. The bell tower dates back to the XI century, while the Cathedral is the result of the fusion of two important churches. Next to the Duomo di Amalfi, you can visit the Chiostro Paradiso, restored in the 900’s.
Museums in Amalfi
Those who want to discover craftsmanship of the past by visiting the museums of the Amalfi Coast, should pay a visit to the Amalfi Paper Museum in Via delle Cartiere and the Agricultural Museum.
The heritage that the Marine Republic left the town of Amalfi can be seen at the Arsenale, where ships were once built. Today the Museum of the Compass and the marine Duchy is housed in the old dockyards where you can find out about the history of the ancient power of Amalfi and the invention of the compass, an important instrument for navigation, invented by Flavio Gioia who was from Amalfi.
The historic Regatta of the Marine Republics
Every four years Amalfi is host to the Palio delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinare, a boat race between the four marine republics, Venice, Pisa, Genova and Amalfi.
Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Grotto)
The Grotta dello Smeraldo is just 5 kilometres from Amalfi. Its name derives from the emerald reflections created in the water by stalactites and stalagmites. The grotto can be reached by lift from the road above or by boat.
When you visit the most beautiful grotto on the Amalfi Coast you can admire the underwater crib, made with ceramics from Vietri sul Mare and located around 4 metres under water. Baby Jesus is placed in the crib on 25 December every year in a charming ceremony.