Sambuco
Sambuco: The Forest Jewel of Ravello
If you are traveling along the Amalfi Coast, you might think that the charming town of Ravello is already enough for your holiday. However, it is important to know the hidden small gems within the region to fully appreciate the beauty of this corner of paradise. One of these gems is the hamlet of Sambuco, a small community located just a short distance from Ravello, at 492 meters above sea level. Furthermore, Sambuco is a renowned holiday spot among tourists for its natural beauty, charming history, and expanses of woods.
Origins
The history of Sambuco dates back to the 10th century, when the locality was renowned for the production of timber and wool, which were traded by the noble families of Ravello. The name Sambuco derives from the presence of lush sambucus plants in the Mediterranean scrub.
Physical geography
The terrain of Sambuco is characterized by a rare combination of hills and mountains, which host lush expanses of chestnut groves and Mediterranean scrub woods. The hamlet borders the Passo di Tramonti, the hamlet of Cesarano (Tramonti), and the community of Lacco. Furthermore, the hamlet overlooks the Minor Reghinna Valley and Mount Forcella di Minori (Italy).
Flora and fauna
The rugged geography of Sambuco houses a varied flora and fauna. The luxuriant nature comprises chestnut groves, Mediterranean scrub, and smilax aspera. The fauna is made even more special by the presence of foxes, dragonflies, and mosquitoes in the few marshy stretches of the area.
Patron Saint
The patron saint of Sambuco is Santa Maria della Pomice, so named for the presence of volcanic rock used for the preparation of mortar. The church of Santa Maria del Lacco, one of the most beautiful in the area, houses a wooden sculpture of the Virgin that is carried in procession through the streets of Sambuco during the annual festival on the first weekend after Easter.
Notes
Sambuco is a hamlet of Ravello located on the Amalfi Coast, famous for its natural beauty and expanse of woods. The community of Sambuco takes its name from the sambucus plants present in the area, which represent one of the many species of flora and fauna that characterize this wonderful corner of paradise. The patron saint of Sambuco is Santa Maria della Pomice, whose wooden statue is carried in procession every year.
