By: Stephanie and Corrine
Volcanoes are an important part of the landscape in Sorrento. We can see it from the dorm, the beach, and Villa Comunale. Villa Comunale is known as "the balcony of Sorrento." From this street you can see gorgeous views of Marina Piccola Beach and Mt. Vesuvius. Along the street you can find beautiful gardens, a play area for children, and benches to sit on. The Villa is located on a cliff close to the St Francis Cloister and Piazza Tasso. From the Villa there is a long staircase that leads down to the beach, but there is also an option for visitors to take an elevator. The Villa was constructed in 1877 to 1879 where the gardens of Franciscan friars used to be.
Images of Mt. Vesuvius from Sorrento
One of Sorrento's hidden gems is Vallone Dei Mulini. The valley was carved out by the Casarlano-Cesarano and the S. Antonino River. The tufa from Campi Flegrei's volcanic eruption, that over 35,000 years ago, has created the cliffs that surround the valley. What makes this site unique is it appears as an abandoned underground building from above. Originally, the building was a part of a five-system valley that connected Marina Piccola to the port. It used to be a meeting spot for farmers and fishermen. Vallone Dei Mulini gets its name from an old flour mill that existed there whose purpose was to grind grain.
Vallone Dei Mulini
Another interesting thing about this site is that it is somewhat hidden. It is positioned off Piazza Tasso, specifically off the road that connects Piazza Sant'Antonio with the port. It is right next to a hotel and a sign that is included in the images below.
Sign, Hotel, and Street located near Vallone Dei Mulini
This spot is hidden enough from tourists, but still close enough to the city center. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a cannoli!
Written: July 12, 2022
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