Maiori (originally in Latin: Rheginna Maior) is a town and comune on the Amalfi coast in the province of Salerno (Campania, Italy). It has been a popular tourist resort since Roman times, with the longest unbroken stretch of beach on the Amalfi coastline.

History

The origins of the town are unclear, though it was likely founded by the Etruscans. It was conquered by the Romans in the 3rd century BC, who called the town Rheginna Maior, in contrast to the neighbouring town, Minori, Rheginna Minor. All places along the coast were formed by alternating conquerors - such as the Etruscans or the Romans. Between 830 and 840, the towns of the coast between Lettere and Tramonti and Cetara and Positano, including the island of Capri, united to form a confederation of states later known as the Duchy of Amalfi. Each city retained its own name and administrative autonomy, but had a specific role in this federation. Maiori was the seat of the duchy's admiralty, the customs, the salt market and several arsenals. Around 1000 it became part of the Principality of Salerno, and then of the Kingdom of Naples, of which it followed the history until the 19th century.

Main sights

Transport

The nearest airport is Salerno-Pontecagnano Airport (QSR).

In film

In the mid-20th century, Roberto Rossellini filmed some of his films here: Paisà (1946); "Il Miracolo" ("The Miracle"), the second episode of the movie L'Amore (Ways of Love, 1948); La macchina ammazzacattivi (Machine to Kill Bad People, 1952); and Il viaggio in Italia (Journey to Italy, 1953). A film festival is held every November at which the Premio Internazionale Roberto Rossellini is awarded.