Amalfi
Part of The Encyclopedia of Southern Italy.
Amalfi [SA]: A port city and commune in the province of Salerno (Area: 6.11 km². Population: 5,428 [2001]), situated on the north coast of the Gulf of Salerno, about 22 miles SE of Naples, in a ravine at the base of Monte Cerrato. Alt. 6 m. CAP: 84011. Tel. Pref.: 089. Geographical Coordinates: Lat 40°38’8″88N/Long 14°36’18″00E. It’s isolation from the Campanian hinterland protected it from much of the chaos following the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the subsequent Romano-Gothic War. Strongly dependent on the sea it developed into a powerful medieval city-state rivaling Pisa and Venice in its commercial connections. The Tabula Amalphitana, the code of maritime law developed at Amalfi, became the standard for most European states for centuries. At its height in the 12th Century, Amalfi had a population of about 50,000. Its most significant monument is its 11th Century cathedral.
Inhabitants Designation: Amalfitani.
Location & Setting: Part of Comunità Montana Zona Penisola Amalfitana. Part of Regione Agraria n. 13 – Colline litoranee di Salerno.