Cetara
costiera est
KnownVillages
The story
A fishermen's harbour wedged between rock and blue, where the colatura di alici (anchovy essence) keeps the ancient taste of the sea in a few amber drops.
Access
FREE
The story
Cetara is a fishing village set in a gorge of the Amalfi Coast, with a watchtower over the sea that recalls the centuries of Saracen raids. Its real story, however, is written by fish: here the tradition of tuna and anchovy fishing is very ancient, and from it comes the colatura di alici (anchovy sauce), a direct heir of the garum that the Romans produced along these coasts.
What to see
The little harbour with the coloured boats and the beach at the foot of the village; the viceregal tower that dominates the inlet; the narrow alleys that climb among the houses. But you come to Cetara above all for the taste: the colatura di alici, amber and intense, that the village's restaurants serve on the simplest spaghetti, and the tuna worked according to tradition.
Hours and prices
Free entry.
Tips
Stop to eat in the village and ask for spaghetti alla colatura di alici: it is the symbol dish, and here it is at home. Cetara is quieter and more authentic than the more famous destinations of the Coast — a good refuge when Amalfi and Positano are crowded. Take away a small bottle of colatura: it keeps for a long time and is the truest souvenir.
Frequently asked questions
What is the colatura di alici of Cetara?
An amber liquid condiment obtained from the maturing of anchovies under salt, heir of Roman garum: it is used raw, above all on pasta.
Is Cetara suited to a day trip?
Yes: it is a compact village, explored on foot in a few hours, and it is a quieter stop than Amalfi and Positano.
Can you swim at Cetara?
Yes, at the foot of the village there is a beach; access to the sea is free.
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