According to tradition Ravello was founded by Romans shipwrecked in the vicinity. During the Middle ages it prospered thanks to trading with the Middle East, it minted its own coins, and is said to have numbered 37.000 inhabitants. Was further known as the "City of One Hundred Churches", indeed the number of objects, let alone their importance discovered since, are numerous and precious. The name supposedly comes from Rebellum (Rebel) or more poetically from the post-latin classic "Res-Bella" (Made Beautiful).

Acclaimed world-wide as one of the most beautiful towns in the world, with circa 200.000 visitors coming to admire it annually, Ravello is one of the most ancient of Italy's cities.

Its enviable position dominating the Amalfi Coast, is perfect for admiring views amongst the most beautiful in the world. Certainly recommendable is a walk along the many ancient Roman paths. Joining together all localities of the Amalfi Coast, and winding their way from mountain top to sea, one can admire Roman ruins, Paleo Christian Churches (like that of S. Eustacchio), Monasteries, Rock Chapels, and ancient Paper Mills, all immersed in a lush vegetation.

Discovered and inhabited by wealthy English Lords from the beginning of the 19th century, Ravello has always been a tourist destination of the élite, lovers of beauty, tranquillity, music, and walks close to nature.

Known and admired already in the Middle Ages by Boccaccio, who wrote some of his most beautiful "novelle" (stories) of the Decameron, it has been an inspiration for many international Authors and artists such as Pasolini (shot part of his Decameron here), Wagner who discovered his "Garden of Klingsor" in the Villa Rufolo, Gide, who wrote the Immoralist, and D.H. Lawrence (on a visit here) wrote part of "Lady Chatterly's Lover"

In the course of the Second World War, Ravello became (for a short period) the centre of Italian Politics, when King of Italy (and his court) moved to Villa Episcopio. This was already the Royal summer residence, and here Emanuele III abdicated in favour of his son Umberto. Furthermore it was at Villa Episcopio, that President John F. Kennedy's family spent a whole month, hosted by the Italian Government in 1962.

Ravello has always been a discreet and favourite destination for Actors, Authors, Musicians and Artists alike.