Villa Rufolo, 13th-century villa in Ravello, Italy
Villa Rufolo is a medieval residence overlooking Ravello with two prominent towers, one named Torre Maggiore. The building rises from a clifftop perch with tiered gardens that offer sweeping views toward the coastline and sea below.
The residence was built in the 13th century for the wealthy merchant family Rufolo and fell into abandonment over time. A Scottish botanist undertook extensive restoration work during the 19th century that transformed the gardens into a flourishing ensemble.
The villa has long attracted artists and musicians who draw inspiration from its setting and spaces, making it a place where creativity continues to flourish. The annual garden concerts demonstrate how the rooms remain a gathering place for artistic expression today.
The site is accessible on foot with pathways leading to all areas, though stairs are necessary in places. Comfortable footwear is recommended for your visit, and you should allow time to explore the gardens and take in the views at your own pace.
A renowned opera composer worked on his most celebrated composition within the villa's rooms in 1880. This musical moment remains part of the site's story and is kept alive through performances held in the gardens each year.
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