Portanapoli

Outstanding gardens and spectacular views in Ravello

Serpentine roads take you to the picturesque town of Ravello, which is located on a mountain ledge 350 m above the sea. There, you can enjoy countless gorgeous panorama views of the Amalfi Coast, the sea, and the surrounding vineyards.

Giardini Rufolo in Ravello (© Portanapoli.com)

Giardini Rufolo in Ravello (© Portanapoli.com)

As early as the 19th century, Ravello was a popular vacation spot for aristocrats and artists due to its beautiful mountain location and remoteness. Unlike other tourist cities at the Amalfi Coast, the mostly car-free little town has retained its tranquility.

Ravello’s romantic cityscape is characterized by Moorish style elements and is defined by medieval alleyways, stylish villas, and blooming gardens.

The market square with San Pantaleone Cathedral is Ravello’s heart

The cathedral is consecrated to the city’s patron of the same name. Its beautiful bronze doors were built by Barisanus of Trani from Apulia in 1179. Inside the cathedral you find a lovely pulpit; it is carried by columns decorated with mosaics that sit on six stone lions.

Not far from the cathedral is Villa Rufolo. Built in the 13th century, the villa is characterized by Byzantine and Arabic elements and attracts many visitors. The former residence of the aristocratic Rufolo family has a wonderful courtyard and a fantastic garden with stone pines, flowers, cypresses and terraces, from which you have a great view of the sea. In 1880, Wagner drew inspiration from this beauty while working on his composition of “Parsifal”; he imagined this spot to be “Klingsor’s magical garden”. In honour of Wagner, the internationally known Ravello Music Festival has been taking place in the Villa Rufolo each year since 1953.

Villa Cimbrone in Ravello is particularly lovely

It was built in the 14th century and is characterized by several different architectural styles. Bought in 1904 by the Englishman E.W. Becket, it was completely remodeled. From its belvedere, you have a breathtaking view of the coast up to Salerno, and of the cities of Atrani and Amalfi. The actress Greta Garbo, the writer D.H. Lawrence, and Winston Churchill spent some wonderful times here.

If you travel to the Amalfi Coast, you should visit so the charming Positano.

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