ALL THE ICONIC SQUARES OF THE AMALFI COAST: PLACES TO EXPERIENCE, PHOTOGRAPH, AND REMEMBER

Piazza del Duomo in Amalfi needs no introduction: dominated by the majestic staircase of the Saint Andrew’s Cathedral, it is the shining center of the city. Here you will find Saint Andrew’s Fountain, much loved by the people of Amalfi, and it is also the place where all the major events take place, such as New Year's Eve concerts and processions. Always bustling, the square is home to historic cafés, shops, and restaurants: one of the most enjoyable experiences in Amalfi is undoubtedly sitting at one of the cafés and observing everything around you! The atmosphere, teeming with life, will enchant you.

Also dedicated to the Amalfi navigator credited with inventing the magnetic compass, Piazza Flavio Gioia in Positano is truly iconic. It is a white stone square overlooked by the church of Santa Maria Assunta, from which a staircase leads down to the marina. Whether it's to capture the church or the blue sea that begins to come into view, everyone who passes by takes a photo!

Remaining in the pearl of the Amalfi Coast, we must also mention Piazza dei Mulini (literally: Square of the Mills). This is the busiest intersection in the city: on one side it is bordered by Via Cristoforo Colombo, one of the busiest streets in Positano, while on the other side it is bordered by Via dei Mulini, the main pedestrian street lined with boutiques, bars, and luxury shops, which leads to Piazza Flavio Gioia. 

As its name suggests, this square is also named after the city's cathedral. Dedicated to Saints Pantaleone and Maria Assunta, the cathedral dates back to the Middle Ages and features a magnificent, richly crafted bronze portal. The square is the nerve center of the city: surrounded on one side by beautiful maritime pines, it is also home to bars and small shops. It is the ideal place to enjoy an aperitif outdoors! What's more, the square is just a short walk from one of Ravello's most spectacular attractions, the stunning Villa Rufolo.

When you set foot in this square, you will feel like you are visiting an open-air nativity scene: ancient but elegant buildings stand out on all sides, and a staircase leads to a small but charming church dedicated to Saint Salvatore de' Birecto. Intimate and cozy, Piazza Umberto I is truly one of a kind, making it one of the most evocative squares in Italy. What's more, visiting during the low season means you can see how it is experienced by the locals: a true symbol of everyday life and authenticity.

At the end of Maiori's seafront promenade is this large open space right by the sea. The square is overlooked by the Church of San Francesco, which dates back to the 15th century but has been rebuilt several times over the centuries and now features a Rococo style. The square usually hosts markets, festivals, and other events and is one of the favorite meeting places for residents.

It is impossible to forget one of the most extraordinary squares on the Amalfi Coast: Piazza San Gennaro in Vettica Maggiore, a hamlet of Praiano. Dominated by the magnificent majolica dome of the church of the same name, the square is also decorated with colorful majolica tiles forming geometric designs. From here, you can enjoy an incredibly beautiful view of the sea along the coast: definitely worth a visit!

Salerno is the largest city at the gateway to the Amalfi Coast: ferries and buses depart regularly from here to the coastal villages. The historic center is truly remarkable, and it is not uncommon for the narrow alleys of the center to open onto welcoming squares, full of bars and restaurants, where residents meet during the day and in the evening. The three squares I have mentioned here are also the ones that are most decorated during the Christmas period with the famous Luci D'Artista: you really can't miss them!

In addition to the most famous and popular squares, there are others, even in the less touristy villages of the Amalfi Coast, that are just as charming and worth visiting. In Scala, for example, in front of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, there is a small, quiet, authentic square overlooked by the Town Hall. A real gem! 
In Furore, on the other hand, there are small squares scattered here and there overlooking the valley, such as Piazzale del Carmine: the ideal place to admire the view.

In short, all the coastal villages have iconic and evocative squares. My advice is to sit in one or more of them, observe and listen to your surroundings, and not rush through them. This way, you can experience them like a local and truly enjoy an authentic experience, perhaps with a coffee, an ice cream, and a book with you. If you can, interact with the residents: it is the easiest way to learn about their customs and traditions, and they may even share legends and interesting stories about the places around you! The squares of the Amalfi Coast are much more than just urban spaces: they are true theaters of life, where encounters take place and memories are created. Visiting them means getting a little closer to the soul of the place: don't miss the opportunity!