Liparo and the origins of Sorrento
Sorrento, one of the gems of Campania, is a place where history and beauty intertwine, renowned for its spectacular views over the Gulf of Naples. This town has its roots in ancient stories, including the mythological link with the hero Liparo.
The story of Liparo
The origins of Sorrento are closely linked to the mythological figure of Liparo, as reflected in ancient local stories and traditions. In Greek mythology, Liparo is known as the hero who would give his name to the island of Lipari, one of the main Aeolian Islands.
Liparo, son of the king Ausone (who, according to some traditions, was in turn a son of Ulysses), ruled over an Italic territory. However, forced by his brothers to leave the paternal kingdom, Liparo reached the Aeolian Islands together with a group of followers. On the main island, now known as Lipari, he founded a flourishing colony; the other islands of the archipelago were used for agriculture.
One day he arrived in Lipari Eolo, accompanied by a group of his followers. Aeolus and Liparo became friends, so much so that for mutual benefit they made an agreement: Liparo gave to Eolo the dominion of the island and gave him in marriage his daughter, Ciane. In return, Aeolus undertook to help Liparo return to the continent, a land for which Liparo felt a deep nostalgia.
Thus, Liparo arrived in the area of Sorrento, where he became king of a local population. At his death, he was celebrated as a hero, leaving a lasting mark on the history and myth of the city.
The origins of Sorrento
<div><br class=”Apple-interchange-newline”>The most well-known explanation of the origin of Sorrento seems to lie in the particular geographical shape of the Sorrentine peninsula. Sorrento’s name itself could derive from the Greek verb συρρέω (surréō), which means “scorro around, together”, a reference to the position of Sorrento on a platform surrounded by sea and three valleys with streams, which naturally isolate it. Sorrento’s history is also linked to that of the Kingdom of Naples, especially since the conquest of Roger the Norman. It was at this time that Sorrento, aware of the importance of its strategic position, began to build fortifications, walls and numerous convents: symbols of a growing city, eager to consolidate its power. These convents became not only religious centres, but also poles of political and social power.</div>
Sorrento today
Today Sorrento is a place rich in traditions and culture, easily accessible thanks to direct connections from Naples and other cities of Campania. The Circumvesuviana train allows you to easily visit the historical sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, making Sorrento an ideal starting point for exploring the entire region.
Sorrento is famous for its citrus groves, especially for the precious lemons, essential ingredient of many local specialties, such as the famous limoncello. The surrounding hills are home to lemon trees that spread their characteristic aroma and enrich the gastronomic offer of the area.
One of the most suggestive places in Sorrento are the Bagni della Regina Giovanna, a natural and archaeological complex that combines history and landscape. This hidden cove, once part of a Roman villa, is surrounded by cliffs and bathed in clear crystal waters.
Sorrento, therefore, is a fascinating combination of history and modernity that continues to attract visitors from all over the world. Its natural beauty, vibrant culture and the hospitality of its inhabitants make it a must-see destination for anyone wishing to discover the heart of southern Italy.
