What to Do in Atrani

First things first: Atrani is the second-smallest town in southern Italy, second only to Fiera di Primiero. It sits on a rock overlooking the sea, right at the far end of the Valley of the Dragon.

Located right next to the lively town of Amalfi, it’s an easy walk between the two — about 10 minutes along the road.

The town has just a handful of houses and arched entrances, a small beach, and parking is genuinely tough, since most spots are reserved for residents — be careful where you park to avoid a ticket.

Back in the 6th century, it was a Greek port, and around the year 1000, it was occupied by the Normans, then the French, and finally the Spanish. Eventually, Romans arrived from Scala. It was originally named Atranum, a name whose meaning is unclear, and its history became tied to that of the Maritime Republic of Amalfi.

Chiesa di San Salvatore de’ Birecto

The Church of San Salvatore (Facebook), built in the 10th century, once hosted ceremonies for the Dukes of Amalfi, where wearing the ducal hat was required.

Its most important features are the small, sail-shaped bell tower rising above the clock on the façade, and a bronze door dating to 1087. Both were crafted in Constantinople, present-day Istanbul, in that same year.

We’d read about its 12th-century marble decoration, depicting an allegorical scene with two peacocks in relief around a central tree, but when we visited, the church was closed.

Collegiata di Santa Maria Maddalena

Built in 1274 over the ruins of a fortress, its majolica-tiled roof and square bell tower make it stand out against the Gulf of Salerno backdrop. It was built to honor Santa Maria Maddalena, the town’s patron saint, shortly after she was credited with freeing the town from a garrison of Saracen soldiers.

Built in Rococo style, it features an incredible majolica dome, along with bronze doors and marble pillars that have survived intact for decades.

La Piazzetta di Atrani

The town’s main entrance sits close to the beach, right at La Piazzetta di Atrani. Also known as Piazza Umberto I, this is the town’s main square. It’s quite small, but has a few restaurant options along with the Church of San Salvatore.

Tucked between the arches is Gelateria Artigianale da Marco, a tiny shop — genuinely worth stopping by for a good scoop of gelato.

More tips for Atrani

Close to the Collegiata are the Grotta di Masaniello and the Church of Santa Maria del Bando (Facebook). Built in the mid-11th century, it stands against a rock wall where the Torre dello Ziro is located, though we weren’t able to find the entrance using Google Maps.

Learn more about what to do on the Amalfi Coast in What to Do in Amalfi.