SORRENTO
On the southern of the Gulf of Naples, with a splendid panoramic position, stands Sorrento. According to tradition, the name derives from the Sirens, mythical creatures who enthralled sailors with their song.
Perhaps founded by the Teleboi, the presumed conquerors of Capri, over the centuries Sorrento was subjected to the domination of many peoples: first the Samnites, then the Romans, and in 552, the Byzantines. At the beginning of the ninth century it became a Free Duchy, but from 1133 it was subjected to Norman domination. Then Sorrento was passed on to the Angevins, later the Aragones, and finally the Bourbons.
The peninsula was a favourite seaside resort for Roman nobility who built grandiose villas. Some ancient villas still remain, although now as ruins.
In the 18th century, Sorrento underwent the reforms of Charles III, and in the 19th century became a favourite place for artists, men of letters, and musicians from all over the world who drew inspiration from the beauty of the surrounding landscape for their works.
Boasting many varied and impressive options for vacationers, the Marina Grande and Marina Piccola, modern hotel accommodation and efficient conference centres, Sorrento is today one of the most famous and visited holiday centres in the region, and in the whole of Italy. It is also noted for its citric fruit production, especially lemons, as well as walnuts and exquisite wines. Lace and woodcarving crafts, with their ancient origins, are also still flourishing.
Sorrento is famous for the production of Limoncello, an alcoholic aperitif made from lemon rinds, alcohol, water and sugar. Other agricultural production includes citrus fruit, wine, nuts and olives. Wood craftsmanship is also developed.
Perhaps founded by the Teleboi, the presumed conquerors of Capri, over the centuries Sorrento was subjected to the domination of many peoples: first the Samnites, then the Romans, and in 552, the Byzantines. At the beginning of the ninth century it became a Free Duchy, but from 1133 it was subjected to Norman domination. Then Sorrento was passed on to the Angevins, later the Aragones, and finally the Bourbons.
The peninsula was a favourite seaside resort for Roman nobility who built grandiose villas. Some ancient villas still remain, although now as ruins.
In the 18th century, Sorrento underwent the reforms of Charles III, and in the 19th century became a favourite place for artists, men of letters, and musicians from all over the world who drew inspiration from the beauty of the surrounding landscape for their works.
Boasting many varied and impressive options for vacationers, the Marina Grande and Marina Piccola, modern hotel accommodation and efficient conference centres, Sorrento is today one of the most famous and visited holiday centres in the region, and in the whole of Italy. It is also noted for its citric fruit production, especially lemons, as well as walnuts and exquisite wines. Lace and woodcarving crafts, with their ancient origins, are also still flourishing.
Sorrento is famous for the production of Limoncello, an alcoholic aperitif made from lemon rinds, alcohol, water and sugar. Other agricultural production includes citrus fruit, wine, nuts and olives. Wood craftsmanship is also developed.
