Vacation rentals: villas and apartments in Positano

Positano is one of the pearls of the Amalfi Coast. Like the finest quality natural pearl, Positano is highly valued for its very rare, cherished characteristics. Positano rises dramatically from the rocks creating a landscape which distinguishes it as a unique destination. The town lies on terraced land, immersed in a green landscape offering itself to the deeply blue glimmering sea. Its picturesque location, mild climate and untamed, yet sophisticated Beauty have made Positano a celebrated haven.

Tourists arrived here in the 1950's, attracted by its placid serenity. Fashion icons had deemed the suntan a vital component of the well appointed style of the times and what better place to be kissed by the sun than Positano?

It is only fitting that today's Positano swells with satisfied tourists from around the world. This is a place that invites discovery and indulges every travel whim.

Tradition tells us that Positano derived its name from Paestum whose inhabitants sought refuge in the area during the invasions by pirates. The more popular legend is that the name derives from a voice heard repeating "Posa Posa" during the transporting of a painting of the Virgin Mary by boat. The boat encountered a violent storm off the shores of Positano. The sailors sought shelter in the bay of what is today Positano, the moment the painting was placed on the shore, the storm ceased and the skies cleared.

As is often the case, an absence of fact leads to a history colored by myth and legend. To state that Positano was founded by Poseidon, the God of the Sea, for the love of the Nymph, Pasitea may indeed be folklore...but such a Romantic notion captivates and charms us.

Positano flourished around the Abbey of St. Vito. During the period of the Maritime Republics, Positano was destroyed by the Pisans. Its architecture was then modified to protect the urban centre from invasion and violation from the sea.

Positano became a business hub for maritime traffic and was as important as Amalfi between the centuries XV and XVI. Later it became the property of prosperous Neopolitan families. Only in the 1700's did it gain its independence. After a demographic decline continuing until the 1900's, Positano was discovered by Germans, British, Americans and others resulting in economic growth which continues today.

Anchored in the mountain, wrapped by rich, verdant Mediterranean vegetation, Positano is a dream worthy vision. From the sea it is a cascade of colourful houses, clinging magically to earth. Its pastel buildings form a vertical wonderland. Narrow, threadlike streets provide boutiques, cafes, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Part of your walk through town will have you looking up at descending stems of wisteria and bougainvillea. Positano is home to many beautiful hotels and luxurious rental villas. Moda Positano, the style of Positano, touches everything from your accommodations to dining, swimming and shopping.