Via Mercanti: Salerno's Medieval Heart

Via Mercanti, also known as Merchants' Street, is the vibrant heart of Salerno's historic center. This ancient street, dating back to Lombard times, has been the city's main commercial and social hub for centuries. Stretching for approximately one kilometer from the Arco di Arechi to Piazza Portanova, Via Mercanti offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern life. As you stroll along the narrow, cobbled street, you'll be surrounded by historic buildings adorned with wrought-iron balconies, flower boxes, and colorful shutters. The street is lined with a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants, offering everything from local crafts to high fashion. The aroma of freshly baked bread, local delicacies, and Italian coffee fills the air, enticing you to sample the flavors of the region. Via Mercanti is also home to several important historical and architectural landmarks. These include the churches of Santissimo Crocifisso, San Gregorio, and San Giorgio, as well as the Palazzo Pinto, which houses the city's art gallery. Just a short walk from Via Mercanti is the Salerno Cathedral, which contains the remains of St. Matthew, the patron saint of the city. Today, Via Mercanti remains a bustling center of activity, where locals and tourists alike come to shop, dine, and soak up the atmosphere. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply experiencing the Italian way of life, Via Mercanti is a must-see destination in Salerno.