AmalfiCoast Costiera Amalfitana

A famous residential area for nobles since Roman times, as evidenced by the archaeological discovery of an ancient villa from the 1st century, Minori, the ancient "Reghinna Minor" (to distinguish it from nearby "Reghinna Major," now Maiori), like all other towns of the Amalfi Coast, followed the fortunes of the ancient Maritime Republic of Amalfi and became a Bishop's seat in 987. Over the centuries, the powerful waters of the Reginna River contributed to the growth of flourishing industries, such as mills and paper mills.

The village is spread throughout the valley, with numerous districts clinging to the ridges of the surrounding hills, where terraces were built, mainly cultivated with lemons and grapes. From these terraces, one can enjoy a unique view of the entire coastline. Minori has recently been proclaimed the "City of Taste," as since the 16th century, local inhabitants have devoted themselves to producing handmade pasta, refining grain imported from Salerno. In recent years, due to the difficulty in sourcing natural products and thanks to the exceptional creativity of local artisans, the production of this special pasta has been encouraged, along with the preparation of other local specialties such as various liqueurs (the famous "limoncello," or those flavored with mandarin, wild strawberries, or dill) and fresh cakes and pastries, which have quickly gained fame not only nationally but internationally. During the eno-gastronomic event "Gusta Minori," held in the first weeks of September, a theatrical-themed itinerary is combined with tastings of Minori's typical specialties.

A pearl of the Amalfi Coast, rich in history, architectural treasures, and natural wonders, Minori offers many sites of interest that inspire awe and admiration in its visitors:

• The Maritime Archaeological Villa (1st century A.D.), a splendid example of Roman construction, discovered in 1932. It still retains traces of a "peristilium," a "viridarium," and "suspensurae" with remains of its water heating system and mosaics. Inside, it features an "Antiquarium" displaying most of the Roman-era finds unearthed here and in neighboring towns, as well as artifacts found underwater at sea.
• The Basilica of Santa Trofimena, in late 18th-century style, built over an existing temple that now houses the crypt. It is flanked by a square Neoclassical bell tower. The structure is divided into three naves and houses valuable paintings and sculptures, including an altarpiece of the Crucifixion by Marco Pino da Siena (16th century) and a marble episcopal throne. An alabaster urn contains the remains of Santa Trofimena, a Sicilian martyr, whose relics, according to tradition, were found on Minori's beach between the 6th and 7th centuries.
• The Bell Tower of the Annunciation (11th century), located in the homonymous district about 150 meters above sea level, surrounded by vineyards and lemon groves, in Arab-Norman style. It is the last remnant of the ancient Church of the Annunciation, demolished in 1950 due to instability. From the ruins, one can recognize two apses and remains of a fresco depicting St. Michael.
• The Convent and Church of St. Nicholas (11th century), located on Mount Forcella and founded by the Augustinians in 1628.
• The Church of Saints Gennaro and Giuliano, in the district of Villamena, built in Baroque style. The entrance portal is surmounted by a frescoed medallion, weathered by time, representing the Madonna. The interior is divided into three naves with eight pillars, and the central altar is nestled in the last two.
• The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, interconnected with the Church of Saints Gennaro and Giuliano, also in Baroque style, featuring a single nave covered by a barrel vault and coffered ceiling.
• The Church of St. John the Baptist of Piezulo, a medieval structure built by the Brancia family from Amalfi in 1420. In the past, it overlooked the main square; today, its entrance is barely visible, hidden within a complex of houses.
• The Church of Saint Lucia, dating back to the 10th century, which preserves a Baroque altar, an engraved wooden choir stand, and the founder Giovanni Simone Palumbo's tomb, made of white marble with black marble decorations.
• The Church and Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament, adjacent to the Basilica of Santa Trofimena, with origins dating back to medieval times.
• The Church of St. Michael the Archangel, in the Torre district.
• Paradise Tower, from the vice-regal era, now located along the SS 163 "Amalfitana," was part of the Amalfi Coast's defensive system.
• Tower Mezzacapo, in Torricella, situated along the SS 163 "Amalfitana," on the border between Maiori and Minori. From the Viceroy era, it served defensive and sighting purposes. It is part of the Castle Miramare (or Mezzacapo), resembling the castles of the Loire.
• The Fountain of the Lions (11th century), situated on the seafront.
• The Grotto of the Annunciation, located between Maiori and Minori along the SS 163 "Amalfitana." Originally used by fishermen as a shelter for their boats, it preserves the remains of an ancient chapel dedicated to Our Lady and a small pond of fresh water.