AmalfiCoast Costiera Amalfitana

Driving from Salerno, Vietri sul Mare is the first of the 13 pearls of the Amalfi Coast, located in the most sheltered spot of the eponymous gulf. Set at the foot of Monte San Liberatore, it overlooks the valley of the Bonea River. Vietri sul Mare is celebrated worldwide for its vibrant, polychrome ceramic craftsmanship, with a history tracing back to the 15th century.

According to legend, the Greek hero Jason, during his quest for the Golden Fleece, founded the ancient "Marcina" on these shores—likely corresponding to the modern district of Marina in Vietri sul Mare. However, the town's origins are Etruscan, and it served as a critical maritime outpost for centuries, facilitating trade with inland regions. During the Roman era, Vietri sul Mare thrived, as evidenced by numerous archaeological artifacts unearthed in Marina. Under Lombard rule, it became a suburb of Salerno, later passing to the Benedictine Abbey of the Holy Trinity of Cava de' Tirreni. Vietri sul Mare remained a district of Cava until 1806, when it achieved self-governance.

Major Sites of Interest:

• Church of St. John the Baptist: Built in the 17th century in late Neapolitan Renaissance style, this church features a single nave with a transept and a dome adorned with majolica tiles. The imposing bell tower stands outside. The original 10th-century structure underwent multiple renovations, and its interior boasts a 17th-century marble altar, a gilded coffered ceiling, an alabaster statue of the saint, a 16th-century altarpiece attributed to Andrea da Salerno, and an 11th-century painted wooden crucifix.
• Confraternity of the Annunciation and the Rosary: Built in the 17th century, its façade is a masterpiece decorated with painted pottery.
• Church of the Madonna delle Grazie: Located in the Raito district, this church dates back to the 16th century.
• Church of Santa Margherita: Situated in the village of Albori.
• Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie: Found in the Benincasa district.
• Palazzo Solimene: Designed by Paolo Soleri after World War II, it houses an extensive collection of contemporary ceramics.
• Palace Taiani: This historic building features a picturesque dovecote tower that also served as an anti-Saracen pirate watchtower.
• Crestarella Tower: Built in the 16th century on a rocky promontory, it was part of a coastal defense system.
• Defensive Tower of Marina di Albori: Another structure from the same defensive network.
• Villa Guariglia: Located in Raito, this villa once belonged to the Italian ambassador Raffaele Guariglia. Surrounded by a Mediterranean park, it now hosts the Museum of Ceramics of Vietri and a study center named after Guariglia. In summer, the villa becomes a cultural hub, hosting concerts and events.
• Museum of Ceramics of Vietri: Situated in the Belvedere turret of Villa Guariglia in Raito, it showcases traditional local ceramics alongside pieces from Campania, Calabria, Puglia, and Liguria.
• Artistic and Industrial Museum: Dedicated to Manuel Cargaleiro, this museum promotes contemporary ceramic art, emphasizing Vietri's traditions and connections with Mediterranean countries.
• Nearby Villages: Molina, Benincasa, Dragonea, Albori, and Raito, each with unique historical and cultural significance.
• The "Due Fratelli" (Two Brothers): These iconic rock formations near Marina are reminiscent of Capri's famous Faraglioni and are steeped in local legend.
• Craft Shops and Ateliers: Explore vibrant, warm-colored ceramic creations in the distinctive Vietri style.

Vietri sul Mare is more than just an entry point to the Amalfi Coast—it's a destination where history, art, and Mediterranean charm blend seamlessly.