Ravello: The Jewel of the Amalfi Coast

• HelloCiao
  [chow]
• GoodbyeArrivederci
  [a-ree-veh-dehr-chee]
• YesSì
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePer favore
  [pair fah-voh-reh]
• Thank youGrazie
  [grah-tsyeh]
• Excuse me/SorryScusa
  [skoo-sah]
• How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stai]
• Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
• Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [par-lee een-gleh-zeh]
• I don't understandNon capisco
  [non kah-pee-skoh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vohr-reh-ee veh-deh-reh eel men-oo, pair fah-voh-reh]
• I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non mahn-joh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-reh-ee pah-gah-reh, pair fah-voh-reh]

• Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
• Go away!Vattene!
  [vaht-teh-neh]
• Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kee-ah-mah lah poh-lee-tsya]
• Call a doctor!Chiama un medico!
  [kee-ah-mah oon meh-dee-koh]
• I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-no pehr-soh]
• I'm illSto male
  [stoh mah-leh]

• I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-reh-ee kohm-prah-reh]
• I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwahr-dahn-doh]
• How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah]
• That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh troh-poh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoy ab-bah-sah-reh eel preh-tso]

• What time is it?Che ora è?
  [keh oh-rah eh]
• It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
• Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [soh-no leh dyeh-chee eh meht-sah]
• MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
• AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
• EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
• TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
• TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
• 1Uno
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• 2Due
  [dweh]
• 3Tre
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• 4Quattro
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• 5Cinque
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• 6Sei
  [sey]
• 7Sette
  [seh-teh]
• 8Otto
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• 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
• 10Dieci
  [dyeh-chee]

• Where's a/the...?Dov'è il/l'...
  [doh-veh eel/ehl]
• What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-ree-tso]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwoy mohs-trahr-mee (sool-lah mahp-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh pahs-sah eel prohs-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-yet-toh (pair)]

Ravello, perched high above the Amalfi Coast, was founded in the 5th century as a safe haven for citizens seeking refuge from barbarian invasions. It quickly grew in prominence due to its strategic location and the fertile lands surrounding it.

During the 9th and 10th centuries, Ravello flourished as part of the Maritime Republic of Amalfi. The town became a significant trading hub, known for its well-established merchant class and impressive architecture. This prosperity is evident in the construction of grand buildings and churches.

One of the most notable landmarks in Ravello, Villa Rufolo, was constructed in the 13th century by the wealthy Rufolo family. The villa is renowned for its stunning gardens and panoramic views, and it has hosted numerous famous visitors, including Richard Wagner, who was inspired to write part of his opera 'Parsifal' here.

Founded in 1086, the Cathedral of Ravello (Duomo di Ravello) stands as a testament to the town's medieval importance. The cathedral is known for its impressive bronze doors and the beautiful pulpit, adorned with intricate mosaics that depict biblical scenes.

Although Ravello experienced a decline in the late Middle Ages, it saw a cultural revival during the Renaissance. Wealthy families continued to commission art and architecture, contributing to the town's cultural heritage. Several Renaissance-era buildings still stand today, showcasing the town's rich artistic history.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Ravello became a popular destination for British and European aristocrats undertaking the Grand Tour. The town's picturesque scenery and historic sites attracted numerous writers, artists, and musicians, further cementing its reputation as a cultural haven.

Since 1953, the Ravello Festival has been a significant cultural event, celebrating the town's artistic heritage. The festival features concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions, drawing visitors from around the world to experience Ravello's unique charm and creativity.

Ravello is located in the Campania region of Italy, on the Amalfi Coast. The nearest major airport is Naples International Airport (NAP), approximately 60 kilometers away. From Naples, you can take a train to Salerno or Sorrento, followed by a bus or a taxi to Ravello. Alternatively, you can hire a private car or use shuttle services directly from the airport. For those already on the Amalfi Coast, local SITA buses and ferry services are available from nearby towns such as Amalfi and Positano.

Ravello is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. However, for those wishing to explore the surrounding areas, local SITA buses provide connections to nearby towns like Amalfi and Salerno. Taxis are also available but can be expensive. Renting a car provides flexibility, although navigating the narrow, winding roads can be challenging. Parking can be limited and costly in the high season. Consider using ferries for a scenic and stress-free way to travel to other coastal towns.

The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments, markets, and in remote areas. ATMs are available in Ravello, but be mindful of potential fees for international transactions. It’s a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.

Ravello is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, especially in crowded areas and during peak tourist season. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Ravello, but it’s always best to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings. Emergency numbers include 112 for police, 118 for medical emergencies, and 115 for fire services.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the general emergency number in Italy. For medical emergencies, dial 118. Ravello has a local medical clinic, but for more serious conditions, you may need to travel to the hospital in Salerno or Naples. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. Always carry your travel insurance details with you, as it is recommended to have insurance that covers medical emergencies while traveling.

Fashion: Do dress elegantly; Italians appreciate style. Avoid overly casual attire when dining out. Religion: Do dress modestly when visiting churches. Cover shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do validate your bus ticket before boarding. Don’t speak loudly or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don’t rush meals; dining is a leisurely activity in Italy.

To experience Ravello like a local, take time to enjoy the town’s tranquil atmosphere. Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone for stunning gardens and views. Attend a concert at the Ravello Festival if visiting in the summer. Wander through the narrow streets and engage with local artisans in shops. Try dining at family-run trattorias for authentic culinary experiences. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a coffee or aperitivo in the town square, Piazza Vescovado, where you can people-watch and soak in the local life.