The 5 best attractions in Maiori

The town of Maiori is famous for the beautiful surrounding landscape. Indeed, the Italian director Roberto Rossellini chose it as the set for his movies “Paisà” (1946), “The Miracle” (1948) and “The bad-killing machine” (1952). Also the British singer Harry Styles shot the music video for his song “Golden” in Minori. In short, it is really worth a visit!

Here are the best attractions in town!

1) THE MEZZACAPO CASTLE

During a visit to Maiori, your will see a beautiful light-colored building on a rocky outcrop in front of the sea. It is the Mezzacapo Castle, or Miramare Castle, built at the end of the 19th century by one of the Mezzacapo marquises.

Actually, the history of this castle is quite particular.

During his stay in France, the Marquis Mezzacapo saw one of the many castles that still today are on the banks of the Loire, in France. He was so fascinated by it that he decided to replicate it in Maiori, his hometown.

Not knowing how to describe it accurately, he bought a matchbox with the image of the French castle on the package and showed it to the builders.

From the castle you will admire one of the most beautiful sea views on the Amalfi Coast.

2) THE CASTLE OF SAN NICOLA

Another castle overlooking Maiori is the Castle of San Nicola de Thoro Plano.
This building dates back to the times when Amalfi was a Maritime Republic and served as a refuge for the people during the incursions of the Lombards and the Saracens. Inside, there were lodgings, warehouses and a freshwater spring for water supply.

A visit to the Castle is a great way to find out more about the history of the entire Amalfi Coast. Moreover, from here you can enjoy another spectacular view.

If you like walking, you can reach the Castle by following a path with more than 700 steps. Otherwise you can use the car and follow the main road.

3) THE SARACEN TOWERS

Due to the incursions of the Saracens, the entire Amalfi Coast is dotted with ancient watchtowers. Some are completely destroyed, others are in excellent condition.

You can find one right on the beach of Maiori. From here, looking towards Minori you will notice the Miramare Castle and another Norman Tower.

4) THE CHURCH OF SANTA MARIA OLEARIA

Not far from the center of Maiori is the Abbey of Santa Maria de Olearia.

The Abbey is a complex that dates back to the Middle Ages and includes 3 churches carved into the rock. For this reason, tourists often do not notice them and it is a pity!

Indeed, it is a very suggestive place. A visit allows you to admire another great view of the sea, but also discover interesting works of ancient art.

You can reach it by car or by foot, following the paths towards Capo dell’Orso.

5) THE CAVES

In Maiori and its surroundings there are enchanting beaches where you can relax, sunbathe and snorkel. Furthermore, you can explore some sea caves.

One is the Grotta Sulfurea or Grotta Suffregna (lit.: the Sulphurous Cave). It is close to the beach of Maiori and can only be reached by sea. Inside there is a source of sulphurous water with excellent therapeutic properties.

Not far away is the Pannona Cave, or Pandora’s Cave. It is larger and more suggestive than the previous one. This is due to the numerous and bizarre stalactites and stalagmites, and the wonderful blue-emerald water reflections.