Montepertuso

Montepertuso sits above Positano overlooking the sea; it is a place where time seems to stand still.

This enchanting village was reachable only by a staircase, by walking up to 1500 steps, until not many decades ago when the road was built. Now the old town can be reached in just a few minutes by car or bus, though the stairs and trails remain for those who like a nice walk.

Montepertuso's origins are lost in time, but it has been inhabited for more than a millennium. Its name comes from the massive natural hole in the rock (Montepertuso means "pierced rock" literally). This village has experienced periods of splendour and decline with the kingdom of Frederick II, who wanted his hunting eagles to be reared there.

One colorful legend holds that Montepertuso was the location of the eternal fight between Good and Evil, respectively personified by the Virgin Mary and the Devil, the latter portrayed as a snake. One night the Good won over the Evil and the hole in the rock is the visible everlasting sign of the Virgin Mary's presence.

The village is small but charming and offers splendid views, along with some good restaurants (with panoramic terraces, perfect at sunset!) There are some good walking trails that depart from here to explore the other outlying hamlets set in the terraced hills.