Travel Curious

Solerno

  

For a brief period (February to August 1944) Salerno was the capital city of Italy, during the liberation after the allied landings before the fall of Monte Cassino to the allies and the subsequent liberation of Rome. Today it is a lively port town, that is rapidly re-acquiring a relaxing and open Mediterranean atmosphere. The port area itself is not particularly attractive, but once you get onto the promenade things get better. 

 

Worth a visit also is the Historical Old Town, which has in recent years recovered from being a virtual no-go area to being one of the best preserved historical town centers, full of tiny little passageways and hidden corners.

 

Salerno was the birthplace of the “Schola Medica Salernitana” in the ninth century, which was the most important source of medical information in Europe at the time, and provided an important impulse to medical learning in Europe.

 

The Duomo of Salerno is amazing to see. Build in 11th century, it is a peaceful place and a giant Cathedral housing rich art treasures and the holy relics of evangelist St. Matthew and of Pope Gregor VII. The duomo of Salerno is the most important church in the city. Dating back to 1076 AD, it’s dedicated to Saint Matthew, whose relics are inside the crypt. As you approach the cathedral, you’ll note its impressive bell tower, which was built in Arabic-Norman style and contains 8 different bells. Inside you can pore over fascinating frescoes and mosaics.