Yippee, Amalfi

The next day we cruise along one of Italy’s most beautiful coastlines, the Amalfi Coast. We head for the heart of it, the town of Amalfi. There is little mystery why a town sprung up in this location. Sheer cliffs on both sides leading to a valley between the two majestic mountains gives a perfect location for a maritime based city. The oldest maritime code, Travole Amafitara, originated here centuries ago. Most of the town is tucked away behind an arched wall that connects the two mountains together, protecting it in ancient time from the onslaught of foreign invaders. Now nothing protects it from the onslaught of tourists. Even this late in the season, this place is flooded with foreigner’s carrying charge cards as their weapon of choice. While the heart of the city has been carved out by such weapons, the bones of the city are still clearly present. A magnificent 9th century tower built of colorful rock commands the town below. The impressive Chiostro del Paradiso flanks the Duomo built in the 13th century. We wander around breathing in the architecture detail carved centuries ago.