“In all things of nature there is something wonderful.”
ARISTOTLE
Campania is one of the richest places in history, art, culture, but above all it offers a lot, from the natural point of view: paths, parks, hiking routes, many breathtaking landscapes. But it is also a land of myths and legends, in fact there are many stories that are passed down from generation to generation and which fully reflect the true essence of Campania; love stories, songs, teasing and more.
That said, here are 4 itineraries not to be missed and their legends:
1) the famous PATH OF THE GODS
One of the most beautiful walks in the region, about 6 hours for a distance of 9.5 km. A route that will offer you an incredible panorama of the most beautiful coast in Italy, the “Amalfi Coast”.
The Li Galli (or Sirens) Archipelago is where the Greeks believed Odysseus faced the Sirens. The latter, so as not to be manipulated by them, decided to have himself attached to the mainmast of his ship. Worried, the Gods of Olympus descend to Earth to prevent the shipwreck of the young leader, but land a few kilometers from the archipelago and then start running to help Odysseus. According to legend, it was their footsteps that crossed the rocks of the coast, creating what is now called the “Path of the Gods”.
And the sirens?
Humiliated, they threw themselves into the sea and turned into stones: the Li Galli archipelago, made up of Gallo Lungo (in the shape of a dolphin), Castelluccia and Rotonda.
2) The End of the Bell
Route full of nature, history and archeology lasting about 5 hours for a route of about 6.5 km. You will be amazed by the beauty of so much greenery and calm that emerges from this place.
It is said that the Saracens during an invasion ransacked the church of S. Antonino Abate, protector of Sorrento, and during the massacre they stole not only many precious objects but also the bronze bell. The fleet left Sorrento, but near Punta Campanella a mysterious force blocked the ship. In an attempt to continue their journey, the Saracens began to throw their spoils into the sea, but only by throwing the bell of S. Antonino did they manage to break free and leave. According to some fishermen, every February 14, the feast day of S. Antonino, near Punta Campanella, you hear the bell ringing underwater and that is where the name of the place derives.
3) Ieranto Bay
This is without doubt one of the most beautiful walks you can take within the Marine Protected Area. At the end of the promenade you reach the small beach of Ieranto, which is certainly one of the most beautiful with a view of Punta Campanella and the Faraglioni of Capri.
According to ancient legends, mermaids lived in the crystal clear waters of the Bay, half-woman, half-fish creatures, enchanted by the purity of the sea and the lush nature.
The very name of Ieranto Bay, “Ieros”, in Greek refers to something mystical and sacred.
4) Montepertuso
Montepertuso dominates the town of Positano and represents one of the most evocative natural beauties of the Amalfi Coast. What is surprising is the large hole inside the mountain to which only one legend is linked. Curious?
According to legend, the Devil wanted at all costs to demonstrate his strength to the Madonna, in doing so he tried in vain to break through the mountain with his own hands, but failed. The Madonna, moved with pity, touching the mountain with her hand, immediately caused it to crumble.
The devil, now defeated, fell from the mountain onto the rocks below, where his footprint imprinted in stone can still be seen today, according to worshippers.
That night, a very loud thunder woke up the population of Montepertuso. A young girl immersed in a white light appeared on the mountain saying: “Fear no more, the devil has been cursed and his efforts against this mountain are finished, because the evil spirit is destroyed. Remains of his serpent-like body lie on the other side of the living rock. So come with me and accompany me to the Santa forest hill, where we will stop forever”.
