Albori: the jewel village of the Amalfi Coast

Perched on the slopes of the Monti Lattari, just minutes from the sea of Vietri sul Mare, Albori is one of the most enchanting villages of the Amalfi Coast, listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of Italy.

The origins of the name Albori are uncertain: it may derive from Arvo, an Argonaut who settled here after a storm, or from Albolo, a Gothic or Lombard figure. Others suggest a link to “albores” (trees) due to timber gathering, or to the mineral spring Albola. Legend has it that Jason, after landing here, founded Marcina and a temple to Hera. The Etruscans established a trading post here, followed by the Samnites and Romans. Marcina, a prosperous city, was destroyed in the 5th century; its inhabitants fled inland, founding the hamlet of Albori, first mentioned in 1324. In 1610, the parish of Albori was established.

What to see in Albori

Albori is a village nestled on Mount Falerio, above the rocky Amalfi coastline, suspended between sea and mountain, with views of the Gulf of Salerno. Its colorful houses, tightly packed along narrow alleys, follow an Arab defensive layout. In the evening, locals gather in the central square, where time seems to slow down amid prayers, stories, and the sea breeze.

At 300 meters above sea level, the village preserves its ancient Mediterranean atmosphere, surrounded by lush slopes and views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Originally a seafaring community, residents moved uphill to escape Saracen raids, maintaining traditional architecture with vaulted, brightly colored houses recognizable to sailors.

At the center stands the Church of Santa Margherita, featuring Neapolitan school frescoes and Baroque influences by Francesco Solimena.

Around Albori wind small villages, trails, and artistic landmarks, such as the Church of San Francesco and the Bonea gorges, immortalized by painter Hackert.

The village is a perfect blend of nature, history, and Mediterranean tradition, immersed in the magic of the Amalfi Coast.

Culture, traditions, and flavors

In the village of Albori, tradition intertwines with the rhythm of the seasons and its most anticipated events. On July 20th, the patronal feast of Santa Margherita is celebrated with religious moments, conviviality, and the participation of the entire town.

During the summer months, “Albori Estate” enlivens evenings with open-air musical performances, set against breathtaking views and the village’s intimate atmosphere. During the Christmas season, the streets transform into the evocative setting of a living nativity scene, a reenactment involving both young and old.

At the table, flavor takes center stage: from “alla cuppitiello” penne with seasonal vegetables, to fish dishes enhanced by Amalfi lemon juice, and the original “palle di ciuccio,” sweet-and-sour potato croquettes. All accompanied by local wines.

Here, in the land “where lemons bloom” – as Goethe wrote – the Amalfi sfusato lemon offers not only fragrance and flavor to dishes, but also the unmistakable limoncello, symbol of the Coast.

Around Albori

Albori is an ideal starting point to explore the Coast in an authentic way. Just minutes away are: Vietri sul Mare, homeland of artistic ceramics, with historic workshops and the ceramic museum at Villa Guariglia.

Raito, another charming village and venue for cultural events.

The Path of the Gods and the Valley of the Ferriere, among the most spectacular hiking trails in Italy.

Cover photo credits: tanialerro.art