Vacation rentals: villas and apartments in Atrani

Amalfi's quiet neighbor, Atrani, with its one pretty piazza, charming churches and appealing, sandy beach lies only 700 meters from Amalfi, a mere 10 minute walk via the Luna Convento. A direct, pedestrian tunnel is scheduled for completion in the near future.

The village was founded by the ancient Roman aristocracy and its growth was, of course, linked to the wealthy and prosperous families of Amalfi. Here Doges were crowned and buried. Historically Atrani shared Amalfi's destiny.

The village of Atrani comprises an area of just one square kilometer, making it the smallest municipality in Europe. It retains the aura of the Middle Ages because of its threadlike streets with vaults and arches; tiny, timeless pastel colored houses and narrow alleys. There are small, intimate squares and the typical "scalinatelle"(little staircases).

Atrani peers out to sea through the emblematic profile of the Santa Maria Maddalena church. The church is crowned by a bell tower and a cupola encased with vividly coloured majolica. San Salvatore de' Bireto, on piazza Umberto, was founded in 940. In this church, election ceremonies and inaugurations of the new Doges of the Republic were held.

Atrani's economy is based on tourism. The village retains its distinct, unique ambience with a concentration of popular, bustling bars and festive, noteworthy restaurants around the main square, in close proximity to the beach. You can savor delectable local fish, fresh from the sea, prepared with time honored tradition, all the while overlooking the Mediterranean, in fact you will not be able to discern where the twinkling stars stop and the sparkling sea starts.

Atrani is not affected by the sometime hectic local traffic prevalent in summer, because only local cars are permitted to drive into the village centre. This fact just might be Atrani's secret for a pleasant atmosphere. A captivating, moonlit stroll will leave you breathless; the reflecting moonlight shimmering on the sea as the lap of the waves cuddle your senses. If you are fortunate enough to visit Atrani for the celebration of her patron, Santa Maddalena, on July ^22nd, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular displays of fireworks on the Amalfi Coast.