Amalfi Coast, Italy Guide

The Amalfi Coast is a picturesque stretch of coastline in the Campania region of southern Italy. It is known for its stunning cliffs, turquoise waters, and charming seaside towns.

The earliest known inhabitants of the Amalfi Coast were the Oscan people, who settled in the area around the 6th century BC. They were followed by the Greeks, who founded the city of Positano in the 9th century BC. The Romans eventually conquered the region in the 4th century BC and it became an important trading port for the empire.

During the Middle Ages, the Amalfi Coast flourished as a maritime republic and became a major hub for trade and commerce. The city of Amalfi, which gave the coast its name, was the most powerful of the republics and had a strong navy. The Amalfitans were skilled shipbuilders and their ships were highly sought after for their speed and agility.

However, the golden age of the Amalfi Coast came to an end with the fall of the Byzantine Empire in the 11th century. The republic was conquered by the Normans and later ruled by various other foreign powers such as the Spanish and the French. The region also suffered from natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, which caused significant damage to the towns and villages.

In the 19th century, the Amalfi Coast experienced a revival as a popular tourist destination. Artists, writers, and poets were drawn to the area for its natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle. The town of Positano, in particular, became a popular destination for artists and was frequented by famous names like Pablo Picasso and John Steinbeck.

Today, the Amalfi Coast is known as a luxurious vacation spot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its charming towns, such as Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, attract millions of tourists each year. The region is also famous for its delicious cuisine, which is heavily influenced by its coastal location and uses fresh seafood and locally grown produce.