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 The clay materials and the architectural fragments found in the surroundings
testify that since the old ages this area of the coast should have
been a visited tourist centre, originally called Reginna, like the
river. Later it was called Reginna Maior in order to distinguish it
from Reginna Minor (Minori), and then it simply became Maiori. Its
development started in the 9th century, when Amalfi, with its prosperous
business and consequently its increase of population, could not create
new centres in the area immediately out of the town because to its
geographical position. Many small villages were then originated, such
as Atrani, Ravello, Scala, Minori and Maiori, where the Amalfi overabundant
population settled. The economic life of Maiori followed the same directions
of the one of Amalfi and therefore it shared the same destiny. Starting
from the 9th century, the village was surrounded by powerful fortifications,
whose ruins can be seen still at present (Castello San Niccolo, Baluardo
di San Sebastiano, Torre normanna, Torre di Milo). Maiori is a lively
and animated sea-resort situated at the end of Valle dei Tramonti;
it gives onto the largest beach of the coast, which is formed by the
drifts of the river Reginna. A big domewith lively colours overlooks
the village. It is the roof with majolica tiles of the Church of Santa
Maria a Mare, a building dating back to the 12th century but changed
several times during the centuries, particularly during the 17th-18th
centuries and in 1836. The inner part has three aisles divided by columns
and a splendid 15th century lacunar ceiling. A wooden sculpture dating
back to the 14th century, representing Our Lady with the Child, is
situated on the high altar. An interesting Museum for holy vestments
and vessels has been arranged in the vestry. The city combines income
from tourism with that from its paper manufacturing industry, the tradition
of handmade paper dating back to Medieval times. Along with the traditional
festivals of Carnival, Good Friday and the Saints Feast Day (14, 15,
16 August), we must add others of artistic-cultural value which are
organized every year during the summer. |
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