Amalfi Coast: main attractions and interesting facts

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most scenic stretches of Italy, extending 50 kilometers along the southern shore of the Sorrento Peninsula.

This place is famous for its steep cliffs, vibrant towns, and crystal-clear seas.

What to See as a Tourist

• Positano: A town in Italy located in the Campania region, Salerno province. A charming town with colorful houses cascading down to the sea. Its narrow streets, local designer boutiques, and dark-sand beaches make it an ideal spot for relaxation and shopping.
• Amalfi: The historical center of the coast with the majestic Cathedral of St. Andrew, built in the Arab-Norman style. Here, you can visit the Paper Museum and learn about ancient papyrus production methods.
• Ravello: A town known for its magnificent Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, surrounded by lush gardens. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the coast. Ravello is also famous for its music festival held every summer.
• Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei): A 7 km hiking trail running through the mountains at an elevation of 500 meters. The route offers stunning views of the coast and the Tyrrhenian Sea, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo): A sea cave with stunning greenish water illumination, created by the refraction of sunlight. Visiting the cave feels like a journey into a fairy-tale world.

5 Interesting Facts About the Amalfi Coast

1. UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 1997, the Amalfi Coast was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list for its unique natural beauty and cultural significance.
2. Home of Limoncello: The famous liqueur Limoncello is produced here from the region’s large and fragrant lemons of the "sfusato amalfitano" variety.
3. Maritime Republic: In the Middle Ages, Amalfi was one of Italy’s four great maritime republics, competing with Genoa, Pisa, and Venice.
4. Source of Inspiration: The coast’s scenic landscapes have inspired many artists and writers, including Richard Wagner and John Steinbeck.
5. Vietri sul Mare Ceramics: The town of Vietri sul Mare is renowned for its traditional ceramics, decorated with bright patterns and motifs reflecting the beauty of the coast.

Due to its picturesque landscapes, the Amalfi Coast is often used as a filming location. Scenes for the film “Wonder Woman” (2017) were shot here, with the coast serving as the backdrop for the mythical island of Themyscira, the homeland of the Amazons.

In the town of Positano, there is a famous staircase consisting of more than 1,700 steps. It connects the upper part of the town with the beach and offers breathtaking views of the sea and surroundings.

Climbing or descending this staircase is a true adventure for those who love active leisure.