RAVELLO, Villa Rufolo

Just in front of Ravello Cathedral stands a 13th-century Moorish tower that serves as the entrance to the striking Villa Rufolo. The large villa complex is named after the family of wealthy merchants who first owned it, before falling into disgrace in 1285. It later belonged to other prestigious local families.

The style that prevails in this magnificent complex is Arab-Norman, most evident in the magnificent Moorish Cloister, built with a double order of columns in Arab-Sicilian style.

The oldest element of the complex is the Main Tower, which has three floors and a total height of 30 meters. There is a beautiful view from the mullioned windows on the second floor.

Another iconic structure in the villa is the Knights' Hall, with large arched openings, which at one time was probably connected to the tower and was topped by a dome.

The real jewel of the complex is the gardens, arranged on several levels, where you can see some wonderful native and exotic plants....