Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Herculaneum

Postcard from Paradise: Amalfi Coast and Ravello

Today, Erika and I ventured into the heart of the Amalfi Coast, a place where the sea kisses the land in a passionate embrace, and history whispers on every breeze. I've always been drawn to places where the past feels palpable, and today was no exception. The allure of the Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs and vibrant towns, has always been strong, promising a day of exploration and discovery.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Villa Signorini Events & Hotel, the familiar comfort of our hotel setting us up perfectly for the day ahead [i]. The spread was, as always, a delightful mix of local and international fare, ensuring we were both fueled for our coastal adventure. After breakfast, we set off towards the Amalfi Coast, the drive itself a spectacle. The winding roads, carved into the cliffs, offered breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, a shimmering expanse of blue that stretched out to meet the horizon. It was a drive that demanded attention, not just for the road's twists and turns but for the sheer beauty that unfolded at every corner. The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to its unique cultural landscape. Wealthy Roman patricians were the first to build villas along the coast. The Amalfi Coast declared itself a Republic in 839.


Discover a charming blend of relaxation and adventure at Villa Signorini Events & Hotel in Ercolano, perfect for travelers and tourists alike.

Our first stop was the town of Amalfi itself, a place steeped in history and legend. According to one tradition, the town was named after a nymph loved by Hercules. Founded by Romans in the 4th century AD, Amalfi rose to prominence as a maritime republic in the Middle Ages. As we strolled through the town's narrow streets, I couldn't help but imagine the bustling port it once was, its ships carrying goods and culture across the Mediterranean. Amalfi even had its own gold currency, the Tarì. The American poet Henry Longfellow visited Amalfi in 1869 and wrote a poem about it. We explored the Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Amalfi, and visited the impressive Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi), a stunning example of Arab-Norman architecture. The climb up the steps to the cathedral was a bit of a workout, but the stunning facade and the intricate bronze doors were well worth the effort. Inside, the cathedral was a cool sanctuary, its ornate decorations telling stories of Amalfi's rich past. Amalfi is also known for its handmade paper called bambagina.

The beauty of the Amalfi Coast isn't just in its picturesque views, but in the way it intertwines history, culture, and natural splendor into an unforgettable experience.

From Amalfi, we continued our journey to Ravello, a town perched high above the coast, offering panoramic views that were simply unparalleled. The drive up to Ravello was an adventure in itself, the road snaking its way up the mountainside, each turn revealing a new, more breathtaking vista. Ravello is known for its gardens. We visited Villa Rufolo, a historic villa with stunning gardens that seemed to float between the sky and the sea. Built in the 13th century by a wealthy merchant family, Villa Rufolo has a rich history. Boccaccio wrote about the villa in his Decameron. As we walked through the gardens, the air was filled with the scent of flowers, and the views of the coastline were simply mesmerizing. It was easy to see why Richard Wagner found inspiration here. The villa also contains two large towers. I could almost hear the echoes of his music in the gentle breeze. We also explored Villa Cimbrone, another gem in Ravello, famous for its Terrace of Infinity. The views from the terrace were truly breathtaking, a seemingly endless panorama of the coastline stretching out before us. The villa's gardens were a mix of English and Renaissance elements. It was a moment of pure bliss, standing there with Erika, feeling the warmth of the sun on our faces and the beauty of the world around us. I was reminded of my garden back in Heidelberg and got some inspiration from the Villa Cimbrone gardens to take back home. I will have to remember to get some Limoncello-scented fertilizer to remind me of the coast. Many celebrities have visited Ravello, including Virginia Woolf.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Ravello, a charming hilltop town on the Amalfi Coast, renowned for stunning vistas, gardens, and rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, we had the pleasure of dining at Ristorante Torre Normanna in Maiori, a restaurant housed in a 13th-century watchtower. The location was as impressive as the food, with stunning views of the sea and mountains. The prompt service is a big benefit of the restaurant. The restaurant has a spectacular atmosphere and homey decor. Erika and I shared a seafood risotto and a plate of grilled fish, both prepared with the freshest ingredients and bursting with flavor. The seafood risotto and grilled fish were incredible, a testament to the region's culinary prowess. The restaurant is known for its Mediterranean cuisine. As we savored our meal, we talked about the antiques I would like to add to my shop when we returned to Heidelberg and how they would fit in with my other pieces. I was already imagining the stories they could tell. It was the perfect midday break, a chance to relax and recharge before continuing our exploration. The view from the terrace where we ate was remarkable.


Experience exquisite Italian dining at Ristorante Torre Normanna in Maiori with stunning views and authentic flavors from the Amalfi Coast.

As the afternoon waned, we made our way back towards Herculaneum, but not before stopping for a drink at Terrazza Vesuvius. While the bar may not be highly rated for its pizza or espresso, the view was undeniably the main attraction. And it did not disappoint. With Vesuvius looming in the distance, we sipped our drinks and reflected on the day's adventures. I had a gelato, which was perfect. It was a fitting end to a day filled with beauty, history, and culinary delights. I was able to get some pictures of the sunsetting over Mount Vesuvius, which I would like to add to my shop when we return. I feel like they will add something to the atmosphere of the shop, bringing in a piece of Italy to Germany.


Discover Terrazza Vesuvius, a charming bar and coffee shop in Ercolano offering stunning views, delicious drinks, and a cozy atmosphere for travelers.

For dinner, we dined at Sant'Andrea, drawn in by the promise of traditional cuisine and stunning views. The restaurant is known for its wine list. The terrace is absolutely incredible. The food was very good. The atmosphere is lovely. The service was top-flight. The outdoor dining was wonderful. We weren't disappointed. The food was exquisite, each dish a work of art, and the service impeccable. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring every bite and every moment, as the sun set over the Bay of Naples. The restaurant integrates nicely into the gorgeous grounds of the hotel. As we savored our meal, we talked about the treasures we would be taking back with us – not just the souvenirs and photos, but the memories and experiences that would stay with us long after we left. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. The restaurant offers traditional Sicilian cuisine.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Sant'Andrea - a top-rated restaurant in Amalfi specializing in pizza and seafood.

As we drove back to Villa Signorini, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. The Amalfi Coast had exceeded all expectations, offering a day of unparalleled beauty and unforgettable experiences. The Amalfi Coast has always been a popular destination. The weather was mild and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities. May is before the peak tourist season, so it's usually less crowded. As we prepare for our visit to the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli tomorrow, I know that today's journey has only deepened my appreciation for the rich tapestry of history that this region has to offer. The Ravello Music Festival begins its seasonal programming in May. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings. I am hoping that my passion for history and antiques will be further ignited by the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli. I am also excited to see the Galleria Umberto I, which I am hoping to find some antiques to take back home. I am sure Erika is excited to visit the Trattoria La Porta di San Gennaro, as she has always wanted to try the cuisine of Naples. Erika and I are both looking forward to the Palazzo Petrucci Ristorante, as we have heard that it is an incredible experience. I am glad that we were able to experience the Amalfi Coast, as it has been on my bucket list for a long time. I am excited to see what else Italy has to offer.

Tomorrow, we explore Naples itself, starting with the Museo Archeologico Nazionale and the Sansevero Chapel Museum. I am looking forward to seeing the Galleria Umberto I.