Conca dei Marini, the pearl of the Amalfi Coast

Conca dei Marini, set in a shell-shaped bay, owes its name to the morphology of the place and its deep bond with the sea, witness to voyages, storms, shipwrecks, and rescues. Its origins date back to 481 BC, with the marine village of Cossa founded by the Tyrrhenians of Etruscan lineage and later conquered by the Romans. Over the centuries, its men distinguished themselves for their nautical skills, taking part in Mediterranean trade and serving the Republic of Amalfi. An Angevin fief in the 13th century and later under the Aragonese, the village endured plague and pirate raids, keeping its seafaring tradition alive until the 20th century. Today Conca dei Marini, part of the Amalfi Coast, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

What to see in Conca dei Marini 

“In every window the sun, from every window the sea”: this saying captures the charm of Conca dei Marini, a fishing village perched in a cove of the Tyrrhenian, in a triumph of light and color. Conca is divided in two: below, the houses at the water’s edge are reflected in the bay; above, the whitewashed houses rest among gardens, olive groves, and terraced lemon groves descending toward the sea. All places are connected by stairways, paths scented with aromatic herbs: the “Conca of steps,” a true Stairway to Heaven.

The village preserves six panoramic churches, including San Pancrazio (1362), surrounded by olive and palm trees, and Sant’Antonio, with its harmonious façade and majolica bell tower. The former convent of Santa Rosa, built in 1681, dominated the sea: home to Dominican nuns, it was here that the famous sfogliatella Santa Rosa was created. In the church of Santa Maria di Grado is kept the head of Saint Barnabas, a precious relic.

Other places of worship include San Michele Arcangelo, the chapel of the Immaculate, and that of the Madonna della Neve. Not to be missed are the Emerald Grotto, with its emerald waters illuminated by an underground opening, and the White Tower, a 16th-century watchtower isolated on the promontory, guarding the sea and the history of the village.

Events in Conca dei Marini

 In Conca dei Marini, the festive calendar combines religious tradition and local legends. The Carnival of the Janare, in February, is the only pagan festival, inspired by the witches of the 16th century who met at night among olive groves and beaches to protect homes from the evil eye. Among the religious celebrations stand out the Feast of San Pancrazio (May 12), of Saint Anthony of Padua (June 13), of Saint John the Baptist (June 24), and of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (July 16). In summer, the Sagra del Mare (July 23) commemorates those lost at sea, while on August 2 the birth of the Sfogliatella Santarosa is celebrated. August also features the feasts of the Madonna della Neve (5th), the Assumption (15th), and Saint Rose of Lima (23rd). The year concludes with the Feast of Saint Michael the Archangel (September 29) and of the Immaculate Conception (December 8), accompanied by processions, traditional sweets, and fireworks.

What to see around Conca dei Marini 

Around Conca dei Marini, the Amalfi Coast offers breathtaking views and places to discover. Nearby Amalfi amazes with its Cathedral and characteristic alleys, while Positano enchants with its colorful houses clinging to the cliffs. The Emerald Grotto, with its green waters illuminated by natural light, is unmissable. Among the inland villages, Furore surprises with its fjord, and Praiano with its quiet coves. Trekking enthusiasts can walk the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods), among lemon groves and spectacular views. In Ravello, one can admire the historic villas, Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, with hanging gardens and sea views. For history and tradition, the Amalfi Paper Museum and the ancient watchtowers complete the cultural offer.

Cover photo credits: gigadesign