History
Ravello was originally founded in the fifth century as a shelter from barbarian invasions. In 1137, the town was destroyed by the Republic of Pisa, after which much of its population moved to Naples and its surrounding areas. Ancient legend states that Satan transported Jesus to Ravello during his second temptation to show him the beauty of the world's kingdoms.
Things to see
Many people visit Ravello during day trips from Amalfi, but staying overnight in a Ravello hotel, using the town as a base for exploring, is the best way to experience its magic.
Villa Cimbrone is an 11th-century villa cum hotel, with spectacular public gardens. Passed down from one influential family to another, the villa was rescued in 1904 by a British baron named Ernest William Beckett. With assistance from Ravello architect Nicola Mansi, Beckett added the villa's garden, small temples, gazebos, and bronze and stone statues that make the garden what it is today.
Ravello's main square is home to a stunning 11th-century cathedral. Founded in 1086, the entrance of the Arabic-inspired building features two large bronze doors that depict 54 scenes of Jesus' life. The doors are a pair of only 24 in Italy. Inside the white marble interior, visitors can climb behind the altar to see vials that contain St. Pantaleone's holy blood and a fragment of St. Thomas' finger bone!
Visit Amalfi below the town and take a day-long boat excursion to the island of Capri. The trip takes visitors around the island before docking to allow three hours to explore.
Walkers can spend time discovering Ravello's many pathways, trails and snaking stairs carved into the hillsides. A trail winds its way down along the Via Roma to Minori, offering stunning views of the valley below.
Culture
Evenings in Ravello can be magical and romantic, and there are regular outdoor evening concerts put on by The Ravello Concert Society.
Italy is well known for its festivals and The Ravello Festival, which runs from June to September, is one of the country's oldest. A vast offering of musical and dance performances, film screenings, art exhibits and more, most performances take place on an impressive open-air stage at Villa Rufalo.
Food and drink
Italy is full of fine dining experiences and there a number of excellent eateries within Ravello. Try Ristorante Confalone for traditional pizza and pasta dishes or the Babel Wine Bar Deli and Art, where great food and great art bind together for a unique experience. Tuesday mornings see a lively street market in Piazza Duomo, where visitors can buy great wine, olive oil and cheeses as well as discounted designer clothes.
