Scala: Churches, Chestnut Trails and the Valle delle Ferriere

Scala between Nature and History

Scala combines impressive landscapes with an unusually dense succession of religious and historic sites. The Valle delle Ferriere extends between the municipalities of Scala and Amalfi. In the protected nature reserve, a warm, humid microclimate preserves subtropical vegetation dating from the Tertiary period. The range of experiences therefore extends from tranquil encounters with nature to architecture, local history and religious traditions.

Discover Churches and Districts

Several districts give Scala its multifaceted character. Pontone is an independent district that developed in a circular pattern around the church of San Giovanni Battista. The church in Pontone dates from the 10th century and displays Byzantine and medieval influences. On the Piazzetta San Giovanni Battista, a distinctive architectural solution recalls medieval wool processing: the square could easily be turned into a basin by allowing water from the mountains to flood it, where raw wool was soaked.

In Minuta, the crypt of the church of SS. Annunziata contains medieval frescoes. The Cathedral of San Lorenzo dates from the 11th century and has been remodelled several times; its development ranges from Romanesque-Gothic architecture to the Rococo style of the 18th century. The church of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria has a Byzantine floor plan and a Baroque-influenced interior. Palazzo Mansi d’Amelio is a rare example of a medieval aristocratic palace whose entrance area preserves almost completely intact original Gothic features.

Even smaller remains tell of earlier forms of construction. Only four columns remain today of the former Palazzo de Saxo in the district of San Pietro; rib vaults rest on them. The Basilica of Sant’Eustachio in Pontone was founded in the 10th century. The church of Sant’Alfonso stands in the Valle del Dragone; behind its altar, the bare rock is visibly exposed. Sant’Alfonso was sent to Scala in 1730 and founded the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer there two years later, which was subsequently recognized by Pope Benedict XIV as the Congregazione del SS. Redentore.

Hiking Trails and Wide Views

The trails around Scala offer a variety of highlights. The Sentiero di Santa Maria dei Monti passes through Santa Caterina di Scala and ends at Piano del Ceraso. The Fontana Carosa walking trail runs through the chestnut groves of Santa Caterina and leads to places associated with Lady Chatterley. The CAI Trail 357 begins at Piazza Duomo in Scala and leads via Campidoglio and Punta d’Aglio to the junction near Pellagra. The approximately 5-km trail to Torre dello Ziro runs along the ridge of Monte Aureo through a varied woodland landscape.

For orientation on site, the Piazzetta di San Lorenzo offers a wide view from Ravello to the sea. Such places and trails make Scala appealing to travellers who want to experience culture together with the landscape rather than separately, and who wish to shape their days around sightseeing, walks and natural surroundings.

Local Flavours and Festivals

The culinary side is also part of Scala’s character. First courses and desserts are prepared with the Marrone di Scala and Sfusato, the typical lemon of the Amalfi Coast. The Sagra della Castagna combines the promotion of a typical local product with tastings and traditional folk music.

Religious festivals also shape the year. The patron saint’s festival in Scala begins on 9 August with the display of the statue of the saint for veneration and a musical programme by the brass band. On the evening of 10 August, this is followed by a procession through the centre to the district of San Pietro, further brass-band music and a fireworks display. In Pontone, celebrations in honour of the local patron saint include solemn Masses, a procession through the historic centre, a fireworks display and a musical programme by the brass band.

Getting There and Choosing a Location

To get there, SITA buses run from the railway stations in Naples and Salerno to Amalfi; from there, there is a connection to Scala. Anyone looking for a hotel in Scala can consider the town as a base for combining churches, districts, the nature reserve, trails and regional cuisine.

More Destinations for Your Travel Planning

Novi Velia, Torre Orsaia, Castel San Giorgio, San Mango Piemonte, Contursi, Ogliastro Cilento, Perito, Sicignano Degli Alburni

To the higher-level travel overview: Salerno.