The One Thing You Don't Want To Miss

With so many incredible stories and so much historical importance tied to the Duomo Salerno, it is well worth a visit. Built in 1076, the cathedral was consecrated in 1085 to house the tomb of Saint Matthew the Evangelist. It is believed that the front section of the building was the main hall of the Scuola Medica Salernitana, the first major medical institution in Europe (9th century or earlier) and the forerunner of modern universities. You'll also discover the Cappella delle Crociate (Chapel of the Crusades) where the Crusaders had their weapons blessed before sailing. Adjacent to the Duomo is a museum with a large collection including incredible ivory carvings and illuminated manuscripts.

Other Fun Things To Do

• Uncover more history at the Museo Archeologico Provinciale. Renowned for displaying the 1st century bronze head of Apollo, the museum also houses discoveries from the archaeological excavations of an Etruscan-Samnite town on the outskirts of Salerno.
• Explore the unforgettably picturesque Amalfi Coast, which includes the enchanting towns of Amalfi, Positano and Ravello, to name a few. The best way to soak in the scenery is from the many ferries that travel between Salerno and Vietri Sul Mare, Sorrento, Amalfi and Positano.

Get a Taste Of Local Flavor

San Marzano tomatoes. Amalfi lemons. Mozzarella di bufala campana. All these celebrated flavors feature prominently in the dishes of Salerno. Naturally, seafood is also popular-most notable are the delicious pastas with clam sauce, lemon marinated anchovies, polpi affogati (octopus sautéed with tomatoes and hot peppers) and 'mpepata di cozze (mussels with lemon). Limoncello, the refreshing Italian lemon liqueur, is at its finest here.

Shopping For Bargains

Browse the Centro storico di Salerno, the historical downtown and its Via dei mercanti (merchant street), which has been a shopping district for centuries and is, even today, the main shopping area in the city.

Local Currency

The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of Italy. Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards, which usually offer you a good exchange rate. When shopping, remember there is a Value-Added Tax added to most purchases.

Weather in Naples (Salerno), Italy