Ravello is known for its picturesque setting, perched high on a hilltop above the Amalfi Coast. The town’s white villas and charming medieval architecture are set against a backdrop of lush lemon groves and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. The town’s location offers visitors panoramic views of the coast and the surrounding hills, making it a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the busy coastal towns. The town is also known for its beautiful gardens, including the famous Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, which are popular spots to visit during the Ravello Festival. Ravello is famous for the Summer Music Festival in a unique atmosphere, which was founded in 1953 in honor of Richard Wagner. A special moment is the concert at sunrise in Villa Rufolo high above the Mediterranean sea. The Ravello Festival is an annual classical music festival that takes place in Ravello during the months of June to September. The festival features performances by internationally renowned musicians and orchestras in the Villa Rufolo and other historic venues in Ravello. The festival was founded in 1953 and has become one of the most prestigious classical music festivals in Italy.
A special moment is the Concert at Sunrise in the gardens of the Villa Rufolo high above the Mediterranean sea with a breath-taking between haven and sea.
The Ravello Festival
The Ravello Festival is an annual classical music festival that takes place in Ravello, Italy. The festival is held in the summer and features a variety of performances, including orchestral concerts, chamber music, and opera. The festival is held in several venues throughout the town, including the Villa Rufolo, the Cathedral of San Pantaleone, and the Piazza Duomo.
The beauty of this town, its freedom and daintiness, has always been inspiring to its residents as well as its visitors. One of the richest men who ever lived in Ravello in Italy had his mansion built on one of the ledges in this town. Over the centuries it has become a real draw for tourists from all over. This mansion, called the Villa Rufulo, has been mentioned by Boccaccio in the Decameron, Richard Wagner also found his inspiration for the stage set of his opera Parsifal here.
The Ravello Festival is one of the most prestigious classical music festivals in Italy and has been held every year since 1953. The festival has been directed by an impressive list of musicians and has hosted some of the world’s most talented musicians and performers. The festival attracts a diverse audience, from music enthusiasts to classical music lovers, and it’s a great opportunity to enjoy high-quality music performances in an intimate and beautiful setting.
The festival program is usually announced in the spring, and it’s quite varied, featuring a wide range of music styles, from classical to contemporary. The festival has a reputation for its attention to detail, with a focus on high-quality performances and a great atmosphere. In addition, the festival also offers a range of other cultural activities such as lectures, exhibitions, and educational programs, which are aimed at all ages and interests.
The Dawn Concert
The Dawn Concert in Villa Rufolo is an annual event that takes place during the Ravello Festival, a classical music festival held in Ravello, Italy. The concert is held in the beautiful gardens of Villa Rufolo and features a variety of classical music performances. The concert takes place in the early morning, before the sun rises, and it’s a unique and magical way to experience live music in an awe-inspiring setting.
The concert is held in the terrace of the Villa Rufolo, which offers a panoramic view of the town and the coast. The concert provides an experience of the music and the sight of the sun rising over the sea, that is truly breathtaking. The concert is usually held on a Saturday during the festival, and it’s a popular event among festival-goers.
The Dawn Concert is a great opportunity to experience live music in a beautiful setting, and it’s a unique way to start the day. The concert also offers a chance to enjoy the beautiful gardens of Villa Rufolo, which are beautifully lit during the concert. The concert is an intimate and special event and offers a unique experience to the visitors, it’s a perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the town and the power of music.
What To See in Ravello?
There are several notable sights and attractions to see in Ravello, some of which include:
Villa Rufolo
Villa Rufolo is a stunning mansion located in Ravello, Italy, known for its beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Amalfi Coast. It was built in the 13th century by the Rufolo family, one of the wealthiest and most powerful families in Ravello. The villa is located on a high point of the town, offering a panoramic view of the coast and the sea.
The villa was mentioned in Giovanni Boccaccio’s “Decameron” and it was also an inspiration for the stage set of Richard Wagner’s opera “Parsifal”. The villa has been preserved and restored over the centuries, and it’s now open to the public as a museum. Visitors can explore the villa’s beautiful gardens, which are filled with exotic plants, fountains, and terraces. The gardens are also a popular spot for music performances and concerts, especially during the Ravello Festival, which is held in the summer.
Villa Rufolo is a must-see attraction in Ravello. It’s a great example of medieval architecture and it’s also a great place to enjoy the beautiful views of the town and the coast. Visitors can also enjoy the Villa’s beautiful frescoes, it’s a great opportunity to admire the art of the past. Many visitors come to see the villa for its historical significance, and also for its stunning beauty.
Villa Cimbrone
Villa Cimbrone is a historic villa located in Ravello, Italy, known for its beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast. The villa was built in the early 20th century and was once the home of an English nobleman, Ernest William Beckett, who was also known as Lord Grimthorpe. The gardens of Villa Cimbrone are considered one of the most beautiful in the world, they were designed by Beckett and features a variety of plants and flowers, including cypresses, oleanders, and roses. The garden also includes a variety of sculptures, fountains, and offers a spectacular view of the coast. The Villa Cimbrone is also a location for cultural events, wedding ceremonies, and exhibitions. Inside the Villa, you can admire frescoes and decorative art, and there is a terrace, the Terrazza dell’Infinito, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the world, with a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea.
Terrazza dell’Infinito
Terrazza dell’Infinito, or the “Terrace of Infinity,” is a famous terrace located at Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, Italy. It is known for its panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast and the Mediterranean Sea. The terrace is a surrounded by a stone balustrade and is lined with flowers, shrubs, and statues. The terrace is considered one of the most beautiful in the world and is a popular spot for visitors to take in the views, take photographs, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The Terrazza dell’Infinito is also considered a symbol of Ravello, and it’s a must-visit location for those who want to appreciate the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast.
Cathedral of San Pantaleone
The Cathedral of San Pantaleone is a medieval church located in Ravello, Italy. It is dedicated to Saint Pantaleon, a Christian martyr and physician of the 4th century. The cathedral is known for its mix of architectural styles, which include Byzantine, Gothic, and Moorish influences.
The cathedral was built in the 11th century and it has undergone several renovations throughout the centuries. Inside, you can find frescoes and a valuable majolica pavement, one of the most interesting is the one depicting the Last Judgement. The Cathedral also has a beautiful portal and a bell tower that dates back to the 13th century.
The Cathedral of San Pantaleone is considered one of the main historical and religious monuments of Ravello and it’s a popular destination for visitors who are interested in history and architecture. The Cathedral is also an active church, and it’s open for religious services, visitors can attend the mass or simply admire the beauty of this religious building.
Piazza Duomo
Piazza Duomo, also known as Cathedral Square, is the main square in Ravello, Italy. It is located in the heart of the town, near the Cathedral of San Pantaleone and the Town Hall. The square is a charming and lively place, surrounded by medieval buildings, including the town’s cathedral, several cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great spot to relax, people watch, and soak in the town’s atmosphere.
Piazza Duomo is also a popular spot for events, such as music performances, festivals, and markets. During the summer, the square is filled with locals and tourists alike, enjoying the warm weather and the lively atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to take a break and enjoy a drink or a gelato while admiring the beautiful architecture of Ravello.
In addition, Piazza Duomo is an excellent starting point for exploring the town, it’s located in the heart of Ravello, and from there, you can easily reach all the main sights and attractions of the town.
Ravello Art Walk
The Ravello Art Walk is a scenic walking path in Ravello, Italy that connects the main sights of the town and offers a great view of the town and the sea. The path is made up of several staircases and narrow streets that lead through the town’s historic center and passes by many of Ravello’s most famous landmarks such as Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone and the Cathedral of San Pantaleone.
The Ravello Art Walk is a great way to explore the town’s rich history and culture, and it offers visitors the opportunity to take in the beautiful views of the coast and the surrounding hills. Along the way, you’ll pass by charming medieval buildings, beautiful gardens, and picturesque piazzas.
The walk can take around an hour or two to complete, depending on your pace, and it’s a great way to get a feel for the town and its culture.
