Amalfi, Italy
Population: 5,088
A New Haven Sister City since 1976
What’s Our Connection?
Amalfi is a city known for its rich traditions and history. Whether it be in search of work or for other reasons, ever since the early 1900s, Amalfi citizens have migrated to New Haven. many chose to settle in Wooster Square, which has had a large Italian population over the years. With a large number of Italian immigrants in the area, traditions continue to be passed down to younger generations.
What is Amalfi Known For?
Known for its amazing views, Amalfi has some of the world’s finest fish cuisine and rich medieval architecture. Perhaps most astounding are their lemons, which grow to between ten and fifteen inches in diameter and can weigh up to three or four pounds. lemons are used in many things including cooking and the production of Limoncello liqueur.
Photo courtesy of Ebay.com
History
Founded by the Romans, Amalfi became an extremely rich and powerful maritime republic for Italy in the 9th century CE. At its heyday in the 11th century, Amalfi reached a population of 70,000, though this number has dropped down to 5,000 after the economy declined rapidly. The city was captured by the Normans and then looted by the Pisans, finally, a storm destroyed much of Amalfi, leaving some parts in ruins for years to come.
Places: Flavio Gioja
Flavio Gioja was an Italian mariner, inventor, and navigator born in Gioia, a town in Apulia. He is best known for perfecting the sailor’s compass, though he is often credited with “inventing” it. Gioja suspended the compass’ needle and enclosed it in a box with a glass cover to be used when sailing, he is also famous for introducing the fleur-de-lis design, a stylized emblem associated with the French crown.
Cathedral of St. Andrew located in Amalfi, Italy
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Comms and Livesalerno.com
Places: Cathedral of St. Andrew
Also known as the Amalfi cathedral, or Duomo Di Amalfi, the Cathedral of St. Andrew is dedicated to the Apostle Saint Andrew. It is Roman Catholic and was built in the 9th century next to the ruins of a temple, today it is surrounded by a cathedral square.
Fun Fact: Seven Fish Festival
The Seven Fish Festival is a cultural tradition in which seven different fish are cooked and eaten together with close family and friends. It is sometimes celebrated by Amalfi immigrants wishing to connect with their culture back home.