Villa Comunale di Sorrento e Chiesa/Chiostro di San Francesco
Sorrento
KnownSacred art
The story
A terrace suspended over the gulf beside the fourteenth-century cloister of San Francesco, where interlacing arches and bougainvillea frame Vesuvius and the notes of the summer concerts.
Access
FREE
The story
In the heart of Sorrento, the Villa Comunale and the Cloister of San Francesco form one of the most beautiful corners of the town. The cloister, of the fourteenth century, rises on the remains of an older monastery: its tuff arches, some round, others interlaced in Moorish forms, are a unicum. Beside it, the Villa Comunale faces sheer over the gulf.
What to see
The fourteenth-century cloister with its garden and its arches of different styles, today a much-loved setting for events and weddings; and the terrace of the Villa Comunale, with one of the most celebrated views over Sorrento, the gulf and Vesuvius, splendid at sunset.
Tips
The cloister and the Villa Comunale are in the centre of Sorrento and generally free to access; the cloister may be closed for events, so it is best to check on site. From here you go down towards Marina Grande. Come at sunset for the light over the gulf.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Cloister of San Francesco in Sorrento?
A fourteenth-century cloister next to the Villa Comunale, with tuff arches of different styles (round and interlaced): one of the most beautiful corners of Sorrento, used for events and weddings.
What can you see from the Villa Comunale of Sorrento?
A celebrated view over the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius, sheer above the sea, splendid at sunset.
Do you pay for the Cloister of San Francesco?
It is generally free to access; it may be closed for events, so it is best to check on site.
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More gems: Sacred art
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