Scala
Perhaps no city on the Amalfi Coast, indeed, in all of Italy is better named than Scala. In Italian, Scala literally means “steps.” And though this is a tiny little town, there are plenty of steps; in fact, there are almost 1000 of them leading down from Scala to Amalfi. After making the trip down, you’ll almost certainly want to catch a bus back up.
Scala seems to be a city that built up and down since they could not build outward. Although there aren’t many buildings in the city, there are a few that stand majestically tall.
The Scala Theatre, for instance, towers above the visitors, and is an impressive site worth seeing, and you will want to stay for an actual performance.
The other major, and tall landmark is the Scala Cathedral, the Cathedral is actually named the St. Lorenzo Cathedral and is comprised of three large buildings with a nineteenth century floor. There are wooden sculptures in the crypt that date to the thirteenth century, along with a gothic tomb and stuccoworks.
Scala, the oldest village on the Amalfi Coast, began as a Roman settlement of noblemen in the IV Century A.D. It was already powerful in the early Middle Ages giving origin to the towns of Amalfi and Ravello.
Scala includes the hamlets of Campidoglio, Minuta, Pontone, Santa Caterina and San Pietro and has a very ancient tradition of hospitality, culture and Christian faith.
Abounding with churches, palaces, fountains with population of over 35.000 people. Noble Gerardo Sasso, the founder of the current order of the knights of Malta, was from Scala.
The church is located on the town’s small main square. This square also hosts the customary town hall (or “municipio”) as well as a cosy cafe that outdoor seating.
Aside from this, the only other major buildings are a few shops, two main hotels, and of course a smattering of houses. It won’t take long to see all of Scala, so make it half of one day that you’re spending touring various areas of the Amalfi Coast.
