(Page 2 of 5 / Links to other pages at end of this page)
Day 2 – Amalfi Coast
Taking advice from out host with respect to our plans and the weather, on the first full-day of this trip we took a drive along the Amalfi Coast. The Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana) is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Driving along this route offers an experience like no other, with the road curving around the cliffs providing breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. It is worth noting that being March, whilst still being off-season, the drive can still be very challenging, particularly when taking into account not just the narrow roads and bends, but also the assertive style of driving by the locals.
Above: On the south-eastern side of the Gulf of Naples is the Sorrento peninsula. Running along the southern edge of the peninsula is the 31-mile (50km) Amalfi Coast (Map source: Openstreetmap.org).
We made several stops along the way to take photographs. One such stop, and perhaps a must-stop destination along the route is ”Fotopoint Positano”, where it is possible to capture the essence of the cliffside village of Positano in a single frame. The vibrant houses stacked upon each other against the backdrop of the sea make for a picture-perfect moment:
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Continuing along the coast...
Further along the route, we made a stop at Ceramiche Casola. This family-run business showcases the artistry of Italian ceramics, offering a glimpse into the intricate craftsmanship that goes into each piece. The business ships its products worldwide. Inside, we were offered a brief free tour, although photos were only allowed outside.
Our next (and main) stop along the route was the picturesque town of Amalfi, itself. The town is renowned for its stunning Mediterranean landscape, historic architecture (including its cathedral), and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled at the mouth of a deep gorge, it boasts a rich history as a maritime power and is now a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. As one might expect, it can get extremely busy here during park-season. However, we managed to park just outside the town at “Parcheggio Luna Rossa”. This car park is connected to the main centre via a short walk through a foot tunnel:
The main site seen here was the Monumental Complex of St Andrew in Amalfi. The complex comprises the Paradise Cloister, the Basilica of the Crucifix, the Diocesan Museum, the Crypt, and the cathedral itself. Amalfi Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, stands as a striking example of medieval architecture in the heart of the town. With its striking façade and majestic interior, the building invites visitors to step back in time and marvel at its historical significance and beauty. A dramatic staircase leads up to the entrance and the cathedral dominates the town's main square with its presence. The structure is a mix of various architectural styles, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped the region over centuries.
The cathedral's origins date back to the 9th century, though much of its current form was constructed in the 11th century. It is dedicated to Saint Andrew, whose relics are said to be housed within. The interior of the cathedral is just as impressive as its exterior, featuring a nave and two aisles divided by 20 columns. The gold caisson ceiling adds to the grandeur, while the frescoes and mosaics depict scenes from Saint Andrew’s life. The Cloister of Paradise is another highlight, built in 1266 to house the tombs of Amalfi's prominent citizens. This open-air cloister showcases a blend of Romanesque and Arab influences, with interlacing arches resting on slender columns that create a serene atmosphere.
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Visitors to Amalfi Cathedral are often struck by its beauty and the sense of history that permeates through its walls. It remains not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Amalfi's rich cultural heritage. For those who don’t visit the Monumental Complex of St Andrew, the town has plenty of small shops and eateries, and for anyone not stopping in Amalfi town, simply taking a drive along this stretch of Italian coastline is bound to leave a lasting impression.
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Naples Cathedral and the Accommodation near Sorrento
Page 4: Capri
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