The Amalfi coast was once described as: "...the most delightful place in Italy... a coast... covered with little towns... gardens and fountains... amongst which there is one called Ravello"
As with anywhere on the Amalfi coast the journey itself is always spectacular.
Ravello, famous for its Duomo which faces the main piazza (Piazza Vescovado), the larger Villa Cimbrone and the smaller Villa Rufolo perched on top of the hills of Amalfi, was our destination for the morning.
It is located right beside the Duomo just off the main piazza. Built by the rich and powerful Rufolo family in the 13th century (hence the name) and later belonged to the Confalone, the Muscettola, to the D'Afflitto and, finally, to the Scot Francis Neville Reid who took care of renovations in the nineteenth century. The villa is full of surprises, there are many rooms of interest, a towering bell tower, a large elevated courtyard and some rooms forming a small museum.
The 5 euro entrance fee includes a very useful guidebook with map (available in various languages). It takes you from the Moorish courtyard, past the main tower and then to a well tended, manicured flower garden which was beautiful during my autumn visit. I can only imagine how it would be in the spring in full bloom.
Despite the wonderful gardens and enchanting villa, it is most likely that the view from the terraces is the reason one visits this site. The spectacular views are simply breathtaking. Time seems to stand still, whiling away the time just soaking up the splendid panorama of the bluest of skies sinking into the never ending sea and the silent far-away boats.
It is understandable that the enchanting views have captivated countless souls and inspired artists. German composer Robert Wagner apparently visited this villa in 1880, inspiring some of his work and I'm sure he did not regret it. It is easy to see why these notable visitors like him found the location so inspiring.
Villa Rufulo is an experience of natural beauty, tranquility and peace. Despite the presence of other tourists, it was peaceful and quiet in comparison to other parts of the Amalfi coast.
Ravello has been named the City of Music and is home to the Ravello Festival which runs from June to September. Regrettably I wasn't there for any concerts, I believe they have to be booked well in advance. (Further information here) I can only imagine it would be the most amazing place to see a concert, the stage is literally framed by the Mediterranean coast hundreds of feet below.
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| photo credit - www.villarufolo.it |
Relatively small, the villa isn't as big as Villa Cimbrone (which I didn't visit) but I have been informed it is as beautiful. I don't see why you couldn't visit Rufolo first then Cimbrone.
If you are looking for breathtaking views of the coast and the chance to appreciate art in a relaxing environment, Villa Rufolo is the place to visit. Don't miss this stop on your Amalfi coast tour.
Telephone: +39 089 857621
Opening:
Summer: 9.00 - 20.00 (last entrance -19.45)
Winter: 9.00 - 18.00
Tickets:
Ordinary: Euro 5,00
Groups more than 15: Euro 4,00
under 12 / over 65: Euro 3,00
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