Ravello

On our frequent trips to Amalfi, we typically take the bus up to visit Ravello. On the last two recent trips, in 2010 and 2009 Glenn walked up from the Hotel Villa San Michele to Ravello, taking what seemed to be endless steps to the steep vertical climb. It is a challenging but rewarding walk. There are great views of the coast. Of course once you arrive at the top, stop and enjoy a drink in the piazza.

Ravello is situated about 5 km from Amalfi, up on the mountain overlooking the coast from Maiori to Amalfi. Founded in the 5th or 6th century, Ravello was at its peak during the X and XI century. Reports indicate that in the 12th Century there were over 25,000 people living in Ravello.

The Duomo

The Duomo is dedicated to San Pantaleone, is from the XI century, and was built by Bishop Orso Pavico. The entrance doors are similar to those of Amalfi, in bronze, made in Constantinopoli in the XII century. In the church there is a museum and included is a marble creation of Niccolò di Bartolomeo, XIII century and XII century representation, with mosaic decoration, of Giona eaten by Pistrice.

Villa Rufolo

Also see the Villa Rufolo which is located just off the piazza. The last resident of this villa was the German composer Wagner.

The villa itself dates from the 13th century and was the home of the very wealth Rufolo Family.

It was the home to a couple of Popes as well as Charles I of Anjou.

The gardens are very scenic.

Villa Cimbrone

Take a walk a little further from the centre to visit the Villa Cimbrone which has very impressive gardens. Walk out to the edge and there is a view you will never forge. The busts are lined along the edge of the cliff, you can look out over the sea so far below. Although some find this the most dramatic of the gardens, there are numerous places to walk around and truly enjoy the peaceful grounds..

Of course if you feel like a walk, instead of taking the bus down, you can take the Ravello-Minori Walk. Going down is a bit easier than going up, only a bit, as you are constantly "breaking" with your knees!

More on Villa Cimbrtone, Trips of Note 2012

 

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