Country Images Magazine North Edition November 2017 | Page 11

Tantalising pathways down
to the coast through lemon
groves and olives.
Narrow alleyways between
the buildings.
In the 20’s and 30’s Amalfi was the ‘in place to be seen’ by the upper
class and aristocracy - hence still the high prices for food! Amalifi was
an important trading town and the capital of the maritime republic
called the ‘Duchy of Amalfi ’ and as such dictated maritime laws in the
Mediterranean between 839 and around 1200.
Th ere’s rich history here to be found and much of it in the architecture
that surrounds you. Ignoring the heaving town square and wandering up
the small alleys and stairways will lead you to mystery and intrigue, not
to mention the small bars where Limoncello is served on the verandah’s,
some with far reaching views glimpsed between the buildings and others
with no view at all except old rambling walls. I’m sure the average age here
is 100 and yet they are full of life as they go about their everyday business
with shopping bags full of vegetables to make truly healthy Mediterranean
meals.
My holiday companions were amused by my intake of ‘Insalata Caprese’
meaning Salad of Capri. A simple Italian dish, made of sliced fresh
mozzarella, tomatoes, and sweet basil, seasoned with salt and olive oil.
Th ey smiled because I’m not a salad fan (perhaps the absence of lettuce is
a clue!).
A short tantalising bus ride along the coast from Amalfi is Positano but a
visit there would have to wait until next time as our plans were to travel
south and leave the crowds behind where possible.
Th is is a relatively unknown area of Italy but it is the place that the Italians
go to for their holidays so choose your dates wisely!
I gave this
beach a miss on
safety grounds.
Th e harbour attracts some
stunning yachts
CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 11