MAIORI: A PEACEFUL OASIS BETWEEN SEA AND NATURE

The origins of the city are not very clear: some scholars claim that the Etruscans laid the foundations of the ancient Maiori, originally called Reghinna Major. Others believe that it was founded by the people who escaped after a flood from the nearby Marcinna (today's Vietri sul Mare).

Maiori became part of the “Confederation of the Amalfi States” in 842, together with the nearby towns, and in 872 this became what we remember as the most ancient Sea Republic in history.

In the first half of 1900, Maiori was chosen by many famous people not only as a holiday destination but also as a film set for their works. The director Roberto Rossellini was a great Amalfi Coast admirer, and he shot several of his masterpieces in Maiori, such as "Paisà", “Il miracolo”, “La macchina ammazza cattivi” e “Amore”.

When visiting Maiori, especially if you arrive by sea, it is impossible not to notice the fascinating coastal towers built, between the 9th and the 17th century, with the purpose of defending the city from invasions. 

Some of the most famous towers are located in Erchie (one of Maiori's hamlets), such as the majestic Torre Normanna, and La Cerniola. In the same district there are also the very popular Marina di Erchie, a beautiful beach, and many coves only accessible by sea, the largest of these is Spiaggia del Cauco, 150 m long. 

Maiori as well is very much appreciated for its beaches, and even if it is a small town, it hosts the longest beach of the whole area: one kilometer of fine sand diving into the turquoise sea. 

You will find two outstanding large and well-equipped beaches, sandy and very popular. Immediately after the city center and the Torre Normanna you will find the Spiaggia di Salicerchie, accessible by descending 160 steps. Impossible not to mention the spectacular Spiaggia del Cavallo Morto (the Dead Horse Beach), which unfortunately is considered inaccessible because it is affected by landslides.

A tour of the city will certainly include a visit to its churches, although it is really difficult to choose which one to prefer among the many. Here are the ones you cannot miss!

Let's start from the Collegiata di Santa Maria a Mare, reachable from the main street of Maiori. It stands on the promontory of mount Torina and, in addition to the splendid view of its majolica dome, you will have an attractive view of the city and the gulf. The church houses the wooden statue of the Vergine con il Bambino -found in the sea after being thrown to lighten the load of a ship- the monumental polyphonic organ by Zeno Fedeli, and the crypt with the remains of St. Clemente. 

Another church noteworthy of a visit is complesso Abbaziale di Santa Maria dell’Olearia. This structure, perfectly carved into the white rock, is a real historical jewel composed of three superimposed chapels. The church preserves prestigious frescoes and various artworks, and although it is often not included in the classic tourist routes, as it is a bit far from the city center, it is worth dedicating a little of your time.

Among the other churches of Maiori: the  Chiesa del Santissimo Rosario, in Baroque style, which has a peculiar rose window depicting the Vergine del Rosario, sets in the finely curated stone portal, the Chiesa di San Francesco, near the port and the Chiesa dell'Arciconfraternita dell'Orazione.

Your visit can continue in the city center, at the ancient Palazzo Mezzacapo - not to be confused with the homonymous Castle - the old residence of the Marquis Mezzacapo. With its cross-shaped fabulous gardens, with choreographic and elegant fountains, it is the perfect location to spend a few hours in complete relaxation. During the summer they become the marvelous setting for several shows and events.

Inside the palace, instead, it is of particular interest the discovery of a fresco, which is believed to have been painted by the great artist Ludwig Richter.

At last, let's not forget about Maiori's castles: the fabulous Castello Mezzacapo, which incorporates the tower of the same name, and the Castello di San Nicola de Thoro-Plano, the bulwark of the ancient city defensive system, reachable after climbing a series of steps.