Unveiling History: The Ruins of Basilica Sant’Eustachio in Scala
There is a place, near the town of Scala, where the beauty of the sea view is enhanced by the remains of the ancient Basilica of Sant’Eustachio.
The ruins of this medieval church testify to the great past of this area, once part of the powerful Duchy of Amalfi. Today they are a little-known tourist attraction and for this reason still very authentic. A spot for sophisticated travelers.
History of the Basilica of Sant’Eustachio
The origins of the town of Scala are uncertain but it is thought to have been founded around the 4th century by some Romans who were shipwrecked while traveling to Constantinople.
Over time, Scala became a fortified bulwark defending the Duchy of Amalfi and increased its importance during the Middle Ages for religious reasons. During that period, numerous churches were built, including the Basilica of Sant’Eustachio.
It was built in the 12th century at the behest of the D’Afflitto family, who said they were descended from St. Eustace himself. They built the church right in front of their home.
When the Duchy of Amalfi and its towns ended in decay, the D’Afflittos moved elsewhere and the church ended up abandoned. Only in 1993 did the local authorities decide to recover and preserve the remains.
The ruins of the Basilica
Today, we can see only parts of the perimeter walls of the church. In particular, the apse is still well preserved and one can see the ancient ogival arches with their two-colored stones that reveal an Arabian influence.
What’s left of the interiors are just some of the capitals that once where on the old marble columns supporting the three naves. Today, these capitals are scattered on the floor. However, the crypt is still used as a location for cultural events.
A place worth visiting
The highlight of the Basilica of Sant’Eustachio is its location.
The ruins of church lie between the hamlets of Minuta and Pontone, in the direction of the town of Amalfi, atop Mount Aureo and overlooking the sea.
To reach them you have to struggle a bit and follow a staircase of about 3,000 steps, but once there, the view of the coast is truly exceptional.
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