“The origin of the name Sorrento-Surrentum - is poetically dated back to the Sirens who, legend has it, lived in the rocks of the gulf, from where they tried in vain to ensnare Ulysses with their deadly song” (Kina Italia, undated, p. 5). The song of the Sirens may not have ensnared Ulysses, but it had no trouble luring us there. We took the train to Sorrento from Naples and we we’re glad we came. In fact, we survived it without any deadly consequences.
It’s a charming town of about 17,000 inhabitants situated on the cliffs that rise straight from the sea. It is one pure delight to spend your day walking about Sorrento. There are many beautiful monuments, churches and museums to see, and several nice restaurants to delight your palate. Most of our souvenirs were purchased right in this very same town. Sorrento’s shops and boutiques are attractive and difficult to resist. Perhaps that is what was meant by the alluring “deadly song” of the Sirens. We could not help but make several stops to stores along our walk about the city. We purchased some “must have” colorful large kerchiefs, and some pretty hand-painted wine accessories with matching tea plates depicting various scenes of Sorrento. Some of these were meant for our friends back home. You also have to try the celebrated tasty lemon liquer 'Limoncello'. It is produced from the aromatic citrus gardens located on the Sorrentinian Peninsula and is undoubtedly enjoyed along with the magnificent Sorrento sunsets.
When we were done shopping, we then proceeded to make our way to the other end of this sea side city to the ledge-like terrace from which you could look down over the port to witness one of the most unexpected and breathtaking views of the two Marinas below. Just like in the movies you might say. From here you can have an impressive view of the beach dwellers sunbathing in the white sands and blue waters and watch the cruise ships come and go or simply enjoy the surroundings while overlooking the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius in the distance.
The surroundings may induce you to make your way downwards to the beach mainly via the stairs and passage-ways that are carved into the cliff-framed beach and lifts. However, our time was short and we decided to walk back again through Sorrento’s picturesque streets once more and stop for some tasty ice cream at a local parlor. What a way to finish a day!
Author: Ihor Cap
Sorrento Italy Slide Show (50 pictures)
Bibliography
Guide to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. (undated). Published by Kina Italia. Layout and printing: Kina Italia/Eurografica - Italy. ISBN 88-8180-025-X.
Internet Reading Resources about Sorrento
http://www.portanapoli.com/Eng/Sorrento/so_tipps.html
http://www.portanapoli.com/Eng/sorrento-coast/sorrento-coast.html
http://www.visitsorrento.com/sorrento-and-surrounding.html
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