photo journal for Campania
Loved by the Romans for its microclimates, Campania produced varied styles of wine for the civilisation. Today, variation continues in the region’s towns, villages and cities, which have everything from awe-inspiring sea views (with Vesuvius looming in the background), to archaeological parks - preserved under the ashes of an ancient natural disaster, and from the narrow piazzas of Naples making way for a burgeoning art scene, to hilltop lodgings secluded within lemon and olive groves.
As the access point to Campania, Naples can’t be missed and it’s a city worth giving a little bit of time to. Elizabeth Gilbert captured some of the city’s personality in ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ when she interpreted the thoughts of one of its younger residents, “here’s my middle finger, enjoy your stay in Naples, and ciao!”. Much like E Gilbert, most are here for the pizza, so delicious that it’s received UNESCO status, but it’s worth staying and getting to know Italy’s most expressive city a little more deeply.
Escaping into the blue, via bygone civilisations preserved in ash, is a very different experience. High cliffs offer quiet terraces for contemplation, scented with olive and citrus peel. Here you have the perfect space to sample the Roman’s favourite beverage, Lacryma Christi, or the more modern winemaking of Taurasi DOCG - a designation famed for its volcanic soils because, in Campania, it always comes back to Vesuvius.
Positano Shoreline
The Church of St Maria Assunta with ceramic dome in Positano
The Cathedral’s Bell Tower in Sorrento
Terrace with sea view at Hotel Villa Garden
A terrace nearby lemon groves for production of Limoncello of Sorrento
Vesuvius seen from Sorrento
Marina Grande in Sorrento
Cliff houses in Sorrento
Massa Lubrense, known as the legendary Land of the Sirens. Sirens were believed to live along the coast are lure sailors onto the rocks with their hauntingly beautiful voices.
Casa Clementina in Massa Lubrense
Sea View from Casa Clementina, Massa Lubrense
Journey from Sorrento to Capri
Capri from Monte Solaro, the summit of Capri can be accessed by chairlift
Statue of Emperor Augustus on Monte Solaro, Capri
Three rock formations known as ‘Faraglioni’ are one of Capri’s most iconic sights
Giardini di Augusto, originally ‘Krupp Gardens’ are botanical gardens on the island of Capri
Faro Di Punta Carena, an active lighthouse on the island of Capri
The seafront of Naples
Vesuvius seen from Naples Port
Naples, Italy’s third largest city is known for the grit and guts of its residents.
Graffiti at Napoli Centrale Train Station
A bronze statue looms over modern Pompei from the ancient city of Pompeii.
The ceiling at Stabian thermal baths in Pompeii, these were the city’s oldest public baths and possibly the oldest surviving today.
House of Menander, one of the richest and most magnificent houses in Pompeii. Its owner must have been an aristocat involved in politics with an appreciation for art.
Macellum of Pompeii, located in the Forum, was the provision market. The frescos show everything from scenes of the erotic to the religious offering a glimpse into everyday life in the Roman’s ancient city.
View from Vesuvius. The volcano is a quick 30 minute climb to the summit, although some paths are steep and slightly uneven.
Looking for more restaurants, bars or hotels in Campania? Maybe our map can help.
Check out Elena Ferrante’s ‘Neapolitan Novels’ from our book club selects for a coming-of-age set in Campania.
Looking for a vineyard to visit in the region? Read produced by Bosco de Medici, or for more destinations on the Mediterranean check out our photo journal for Costa Blanca & photo journal for Santorini.