Walking Ravello

Ravello was founded in the 5th century as a shelter against Barbarian invasions which marked the end of the Roman Empire.  Between the 9th and 12th centuries it was an important trading power within the maritime Republic of Amalfi.  In 1086 Pope Victor lll separated Ravello from Amalfi making it a Duchy answerable to the Holy See.  In the 12th century the population was 25,000 and most of its major palaces and churches were built during these wealthy times.  In 1137 the Duchy was attacked and destroyed by the Republic of Pisa.  After this a demographic and economic decline set in and it never recovered to its former glory.  Today the population is around 3,000 permanent residents and the town is almost entirely dedicated to tourism.

We are about a 10 minute walk from the town center (1,355 steps) which is quite easy on the way down as we are apartment is higher up the mountain than the town.  But it is a slog to come back up, especially after a lovely dinner and a bottle of local wine.  As you can see by our outfits and the sky behind us, the weather is changing and not for the better.  Here we are on our way into town standing at the outlook in  Belvedere Piazza, a small public garden. 

 One of the oldest family owned establishments in Italy, the five star Palumbo Hotel is housed in a medieval palace dating back to the 12th century. 

 A beautiful little street that we take on our way to main piazza in Ravello

 Built in the 13th century, Villa Rofolo with its square Moorish Tower established the Rufolo family as one of the wealthiest and most influential in town.  The tower is located in the historic center of Ravello and across from the Cathedral.  The gateway was designed to be ornamental rather than defensive and today is surrounded by outdoor cafes and souvenir shops

Built in the 13th century, Villa Rufolo was purchased in 1851 by Scottish botanist and historian Sir Francis Neville-Reid who completely refurbished the villa and created its magnificent botanical gardens that offer spectacular views of the Med. 

Ravello is known for its local artisans and there are many shops selling their wares including this lovely ceramics shop.

On a lovely little side street at the top of a small hill lies the 13th century church and convent of San Francesco, named after Italy's patron saint, Francis of Assisi.  The baroque features were added during a 17th century restoration.