Publications
Gli scritti di Giordano Falzoni per il Museo Vivo di Ugo Marano: sinergie creative e sperimentazione parasurrealista in Costiera Amalfitana | The Writings of Giordano Falzoni for Ugo Marano’s Museo Vivo: Creative Synergies and Parasurrealist Experimentati
This research sheds light on Giordano Falzoni's (1925–1998) often-overlooked contributions to Italian Surrealism and the avant-garde, particularly his collaboration with Ugo Marano in the Museo Vivo project (1971–1976) on the Amalfi Coast. By analyzing Falzoni’s critical writings and poetic experiments—such as Museo Vivo and Ellissi a Ugo Marano—the study reveals his dynamic, anti-hierarchical approach to art, bridging French Surrealism with Italian Neo-avant-garde movements. It also introduces previously underexplored texts that challenge conventional interpretations of the period, offering new insights into Falzoni’s influence on Italian cultural discourse.
Il paesaggio terrazzato vitato in Italia
Italian terraced vineyard landscapes, such as those along the Amalfi Coast, represent a dynamic interplay between human ingenuity and ecological resilience. These 'built landscapes' have sustained marginal regions for centuries by integrating agricultural productivity with cultural and environmental functions. However, contemporary challenges—including agricultural abandonment, hydrogeological risks, tourism pressure, and climate change—threaten their survival. The study highlights that these terraces are not relics but living systems where traditional practices and modern technology can coexist sustainably. Their preservation depends on multifaceted governance strategies that balance agricultural needs, ecological protection, and cultural heritage. By serving as 'laboratories' for sustainable development, these landscapes offer critical insights for the future of Mediterranean rural areas.
Boosting intellectual capital and digital maturity of SMEs: an investigation of enterprises in an Italian Southern tourist district
A significant correlation exists between intellectual capital and digital maturity among SMEs in the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast Tourist District, Italy. The study identifies that data-driven leadership styles enhance innovation, while components of intellectual capital—such as decision-making competences, management style, and business networks—differentially influence digital maturity. This finding provides actionable insights for SMEs to strategically adopt digital transitions, with broader implications for policymakers and regional competitiveness. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative focus groups with quantitative structured interviews and logistic regression analysis across 94 companies, offering a nuanced understanding of the digital landscape in this context.
Magnetic and GPR Data Modelling via Multiscale Methods in San Pietro in Crapolla Abbey, Massa Lubrense (Naples)
A groundbreaking study successfully mapped the buried ruins of San Pietro in Crapolla Abbey, a significant medieval religious site along Italy's Sorrento-Amalfi Coast. Using magnetic and GPR (Ground-Penetrating Radar) measurements, researchers identified vaulted rooms and structural walls at depths of 0.3 meters below the surface. The study employed advanced multiscale methods, including discrete wavelet transform (DWT) for magnetic data processing and depth conversion techniques for GPR data. These findings were validated during archaeological excavations, which uncovered a wall precisely where the models had predicted it to be. This integrated approach offers a robust method for imaging buried structures in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, providing critical insights that guide conservation efforts.
Naples and the Amalfi Coast
A documentary titled 'Naples and the Amalfi Coast' explores the complex relationship between tourism and local life in one of Italy's most iconic regions. It highlights how while tourism brings economic benefits, it also imposes significant challenges, such as overcrowding, traffic congestion, and limited public access to beaches. The film presents perspectives from locals who navigate these issues, including a resident of Capri who finds solitude by escaping the tourist crowds. Despite the drawbacks, the documentary suggests that locals generally view tourism as mutually beneficial, though it acknowledges the costs to their way of life. Produced in 2023 and directed by Céline Missoffe, the film is recommended for its insightful portrayal of the dynamics between tourism and local communities.
Villae d’otium della Penisola sorrentino-amalfitana. Un confronto tra la Villa San Marco a Stabiae e la Villa marittima di Minori in Costiera Amalfitana
A comparative analysis of two ancient coastal villas—Villa San Marco near Stabiae and the maritime villa in Minori on the Amalfi Coast—reveals how architectural design adapts to distinct landscape and geomorphological conditions. The study highlights that while both villas share common architectural roots, their structures diverge significantly based on local terrain and accessibility constraints. Villa San Marco, situated on Varano Hill with proximity to Stabiae, reflects a more integrated relationship with its urban context, whereas the isolated villa in Minori, historically accessible only by sea, exhibits unique adaptations to its coastal setting. This research underscores the influence of site-specific factors on the evolution of non-urban architectural complexes along the Campanian coast.
Chemical characterization of four ancient white wine grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) from the Amalfi coast
Four ancient white wine grape varieties from the Amalfi coast—Fenile, Ginestra, Pepella, and Ripoli—exhibit distinct chemical profiles that can differentiate them and inform winemaking practices. Ripoli grapes are notably rich in quercetin derivatives while low in kaempferol derivatives, whereas Pepella contains equal amounts of both. Fenile and Ginestra show a twofold abundance of quercetins over kaempferols. The study also revealed higher concentrations of (+)-catechin than (–)-epicatechin across all varieties, with B-type procyanidins being more prevalent in Pepella and Ripoli. Additionally, hydroxycinnamic acids were identified, along with flavanols up to decamers in grape seeds, providing insights into their galloylation percentage. This chemical characterization offers a foundation for developing tailored vinification techniques to enhance wine quality while preserving the unique terroir identity of these autochthonous varieties.
Di pietre e d’acqua. La conservazione del patrimonio proto-industriale nel paesaggio culturale della Costiera Amalfitana
The Amalfi Coast faces complex challenges in conserving its proto-industrial heritage—including paper mills, ironworks, and hydraulic structures—amidst natural constraints. A critical assessment reveals that while the region's Management Plan prioritizes knowledge, protection, conservation, enhancement, and communication of cultural heritage, these efforts must address the vulnerabilities of largely abandoned industrial sites. The study highlights the need for targeted strategies to recognize the specificities of these proto-industrial elements and mitigate their intrinsic risks, ensuring sustainable preservation within the broader cultural landscape.
Strategie per la conservazione integrata di un patrimonio a rischio, tra fruizione e tutela: il sito UNESCO della Costiera Amalfitana
Integrated conservation strategies for the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast, a cultural landscape at risk due to rapid transformations since the mid-20th century, are proposed. The study highlights the need to balance heritage protection with sustainable tourism, addressing both natural and anthropogenic threats. By analyzing historical changes and contemporary challenges, it offers actionable frameworks for preserving this globally significant site while ensuring its accessibility and cultural relevance. This approach builds on the 1972 UNESCO World Heritage Convention, expanding protections to include dynamic landscapes facing ecological and developmental pressures.
Il "mostro" di Fuenti. Una storia ambientale e di impegno civile
Post-war Italy's landscape faced systematic destruction due to unchecked urban speculation, exacerbated by the lack of urban planning and fragmented administrative oversight. This study highlights a specific case on the Amalfitana Coast: the 'Fuenti Monster,' an illegally built hotel that stood for three decades before its demolition in 2005, following relentless legal battles and civil protests. The research underscores the pivotal role of environmental advocacy groups, particularly Italia Nostra, in challenging such ecomostri (environmental monstrosities). Drawing on archival materials from the Fondazione Biblioteca Benedetto Croce and the Comune di Napoli, the study reconstructs this historical struggle, offering insights into the intersection of environmental degradation, urban planning failures, and civic engagement.
Proposal of a Coastal Ferry Using Last Hybrid Technology for Green Transportation in Touristic Areas
A proposed coastal ferry design leverages hybrid technology to minimize environmental impact while maximizing passenger capacity, addressing growing transportation needs in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The study combines state-of-the-art propulsion systems with hull resistance data, focusing on a traditional displacement hull for optimal efficiency. By integrating advanced generators, variable-speed propulsion, and next-generation batteries—prioritizing safety—researchers aim to achieve high energy efficiency while reducing emissions. The approach also explores energy distribution strategies, including shore-based solutions, to further enhance sustainability. This innovative design could set a benchmark for eco-friendly transportation in fragile coastal areas.
Rediscovering tradition through representation: the vaulted house of the Amalfi Coast.
A new study reveals that the vaulted houses of the Amalfi Coast, characterized by their unique stone construction and roof extrados, hold significant historical and aesthetic value. These structures, shaped by medieval isolation and maritime trade, embody a blend of Mediterranean traditions and cultural influences. Through detailed architectural drawings, researchers identified key features linking these buildings to broader vernacular heritage while highlighting their inspiration for artists during the Grand Tour. The study underscores the importance of preserving this heritage to maintain the coast's harmony and splendor.
The territorial organization of the Amalfi Coast: nature and man's intervention
The Amalfi Coast, renowned for its dramatic landscapes of jagged mountain ridges and steep cliffs, showcases unique examples of human adaptation to challenging environmental conditions. This study reveals how the coastal and inland towns, rich in medieval historical and artistic heritage, have expanded while maintaining harmony with the natural terrain. By analyzing both natural and anthropogenic components, the research provides insights into the territorial organization that has shaped this UNESCO World Heritage Site over centuries. The approach combines geographical analysis with historical context to understand the interplay between nature and human intervention, offering a comprehensive view of the region's evolution.
Vernacular architecture of the Amalfi coast: a medieval domus in Villa Rufolo in Ravello (Italy)
A rare, untransformed medieval domus from the Amalfi Coast, dating back to the 12th century, has been studied for its architectural and historical significance. This building, located within Villa Rufolo in Ravello, represents an early example of vernacular architecture that evolved from primitive stone constructions with barrel vaults, often linked to olive groves or vineyards. The domus is notable for retaining original features such as dry masonry walls, fireplaces, Arab baths, and cisterns, reflecting its strong connection to the region's orography and medieval lifestyle. Researchers reconstructed its original configuration using archive documents and recent discoveries, providing insights into the continuous evolution of this building typology. The study also cataloged heritage elements still in the process of being uncovered.
Aree interne e beni culturali: il patrimonio dismesso in Costiera Amalfitana
Abandoned cultural heritage, particularly from the proto-industrial era linked to milling and paper production, remains undervalued in the inland areas of Costiera Amalfitana, despite its historical significance. This study maps and documents these disused structures, offering a framework for their potential economic revitalization through complementary tourism. Using census-based methods, geographic location analysis, and photographic documentation, researchers identified a rich but neglected material and immaterial heritage that could enhance the region's tourist offerings beyond its coastal appeal.
Femmene minute cu' 'a forza 'e 'nu gigante (little women with a giant's power) in the terraced landscape of Amalfi Coast.
A deep-rooted, symbiotic bond between women and the terraced landscape of the Amalfi Coast has been revealed, showcasing how rural women—termed 'Furmechelle' or 'little ants'—have sustained this unique environment through centuries. The study highlights their pivotal role in agricultural labor during prolonged male absences, fostering high autonomy and intricate knowledge of the terrain. Women’s endurance and pride in their work ('Avimmo faticato sempre') persist today, offering a potential model for landscape conservation. The research combines qualitative interviews with older women and ethnographic analysis to uncover this historical and cultural dynamic.
Innovative method for linking anthropisation process to vulnerability
An 800% increase in man-made infrastructures along the Amalfi Coast, particularly in Minori, has been linked to heightened vulnerability to debris flows. This finding emerges from a study comparing photogrammetric datasets from 1956 and 2017, which revealed that while terraced areas remained stable, their surroundings experienced significant anthropogenic changes. Researchers utilized digital elevation models, orthophotos, and the normalized remaining vegetation index to assess vulnerability. The study also employed object-based image analysis (OBIA) to extract terraced regions, providing a novel method for linking human modifications to environmental risks.
Learning from vernacular settlements. The role of traditional mitigation measures in Amalfi Coast
Traditional vernacular settlements along the Amalfi Coast, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, demonstrate remarkable structural resilience, surviving centuries despite natural and human-induced threats. This study reveals that these settlements incorporate sophisticated, often overlooked protective measures—such as constructive devices—that have ensured their longevity. By analyzing a wide range of historical mitigation techniques, researchers aim to extract actionable insights for modern conservation efforts, emphasizing the importance of integrating traditional knowledge into future recovery, preservation, and maintenance strategies.
Modelling the Maritime Cultural Landscape of the Costiera Amalfitana: The First Three Seasons of Research (2016–2018)
A surprising dearth of pre-modern maritime cultural heritage was uncovered during the first three seasons (2016–2018) of a multi-disciplinary project modeling the maritime landscape of Italy’s UNESCO-listed Costiera Amalfitana. Despite extensive archival, museum documentation, and geomorphological research, few underwater artifacts from this period were found, suggesting either limited preservation or different patterns of human activity than previously assumed. The study’s approach combined fieldwork with historical analysis to map tangible and intangible elements of the region’s maritime heritage, though its preliminary findings raise new questions about the area’s underwater archaeology—particularly in the Marine Protected Area west of Positano—where further research is needed.
P.A.S.T. in Coast Project: A Tool for the Research and Enhancement of Prehistoric Archaeology on the Amalfi Coast
The P.A.S.T. in Coast Project introduces a groundbreaking approach to studying prehistoric and protohistoric archaeology on the Amalfi Coast by leveraging open-source GIS databases for data analysis and integration. This method enhances the legibility of often obscured archaeological sites while providing both scientific insights and sociocultural value. The project combines old data with new information to create a comprehensive tool that supports research and preservation efforts in this culturally rich landscape.
Pulpiti in Costiera Amalfitana: cappelle private, contenitori di icone e reliquie
A notable proliferation of pulpits, some in stucco, linked to aristocratic lay patrons on the Amalfi Coast, reveals their ideological potential as liturgical furniture. These pulpits serve multiple functions: they amplify the divine voice, symbolize personal redemption and political/social roles, and house icons and relics, reflecting the donors' desire for salvation while asserting their influence in the community. The study highlights how these structures, often commissioned by aristocratic patrons, blend religious devotion with personal and communal power dynamics, offering a unique lens to understand medieval communication tools.
Risk factors and plant management activities for the terraced agricultural systems on the Amalfi coast (Italy): an interdisciplinary approach
Active agriculture is critical for preserving the terraced landscapes of the Amalfi Coast. The study found that maintenance activities—such as controlling vegetation and managing water drainage systems—directly influence terrace stability and cultural heritage conservation. These practices, identified through interviews with local farmers and vegetation surveys, counteract threats from abandonment and climate change, particularly increased heavy rainfall. Hemicryptophytes, prevalent in terraces with frequent interventions, play a key role in slope stabilization. The research highlights the importance of sustained agricultural management to safeguard these traditional landscapes.
From fragmentation to collaboration in tourism promotion: an analysis of the adoption of IMC in the Amalfi coast
A fragmented approach to tourism promotion hinders the effectiveness of marketing efforts, even in renowned destinations. This study proposes that an Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) strategy can foster collaboration among stakeholders, leading to more effective tourism promotion and a stronger community identity. Using Collaboration Theory and Constructivist Grounded Theory, researchers analyzed interviews with key players from the Amalfi Coast region in Italy. The findings suggest that adopting IMC principles can help local stakeholders overcome fragmentation, build a cohesive place brand, and sustain long-term tourist interest. This approach not only enhances tourism promotion but also strengthens community relationships, providing a model for other fragmented tourism contexts.
Inventory of Vietri-Maiori landslides induced by the storm of October 1954 (southern Italy)
A comprehensive inventory of landslides triggered by the devastating storm of October 1954 on the Amalfi Coast, southern Italy, reveals significant insights into the spatial distribution and morphometric characteristics of these slope failures. The study utilized stereoscopic aerial photographs and high-resolution LiDAR-derived topography to map over 300 landslide source areas, providing a detailed characterization of one of the most catastrophic historical events in Campania Region. By analyzing rainfall distribution alongside the density of landslide sources, researchers identified key patterns linking precipitation intensity to slope instability, offering critical data for understanding and mitigating future risks in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Multidisciplinary analysis of combined flow-like mass movements in a catchment of Southern Italy
A multidisciplinary analysis of the 2010 flow-like mass movements in Atrani, Costiera Amalfitana (Amalfi Coast, southern Italy), revealed how a relatively small hyperconcentrated flow combined with a water flood to create an abnormal event that rapidly invaded the urban area. This study highlights the dynamic interaction between different types of flows—debris flows, hyperconcentrated flows, and flash floods—and their potential for sudden volume increases due to erosion or slope instabilities triggered by heavy rainfall. The research integrated field surveys, geological analysis, video footage, and numerical modeling to reconstruct the events, demonstrating the effectiveness of such an approach in understanding complex geohazards. This insight is crucial for improving risk analysis and zoning strategies in vulnerable coastal catchments.
Paesaggi terrazzati: scelte per il futuro. Note sul 3° Incontro mondiale (Venezia-Padova, 6-15 ottobre 2016)
The 3rd World Meeting on Terraced Landscapes, held in Europe for the first time (6–15 October 2016), revealed the significance of terrazzed landscapes as a global heritage, blending academic rigor with practical insights. The event, organized by Italian institutions under the International Terraced Landscape Alliance (ITLA), showcased diverse approaches to preserving and managing these landscapes through keynote speeches, thematic conferences, group discussions, and field trips across Italy. Key findings emphasized the need for collaboration among academics, policymakers, and local communities to address challenges while celebrating excellence in terrazzed regions—from Friuli Venezia Giulia’s coastal areas to Campania’s Amalfitana Coast. The meeting underscored the importance of direct engagement with local stakeholders and cross-disciplinary cooperation in shaping sustainable futures for these landscapes.
Terrace Abandonment Hazards in a Mediterranean Cultural Landscape
Abandonment of terraced landscapes, particularly in Mediterranean regions like the Amalfi Coast, poses significant environmental risks, including hydrological instability and increased hazards from extreme rainfall events exacerbated by climate change. This study quantifies potential hazards in Crapolla Fiord, identifying that terrace loss has already heightened risks, with further escalation expected due to agricultural abandonment. The research evaluates flow rates and rain intensity at both mountainside and microbasin scales, demonstrating that targeted interventions—such as soil infiltration enhancement or vegetation regeneration—can mitigate these threats. The findings underscore the urgency of supporting measures in active agricultural areas while advocating for small-scale restorative practices in abandoned terraces to preserve cultural landscapes.
Application of the 2D Depth-Averaged Model, FLATModel, to Pumiceous Debris Flows in the Amalfi Coast
A novel approach combining field surveys and numerical modeling successfully reconstructs pumiceous debris flows on the Amalfi Coast, Italy. The study identifies the Voellmy model as the most suitable for describing friction-collisional resistance mechanisms in these flows, achieving high accuracy (average error <10 cm) when predicting deposit depths and shapes across multiple dam-break scenarios. This cost-effective method leverages terrestrial laser scanning and aerial photo-modelling to provide unprecedented data for model implementation, calibration, and validation. The findings offer a robust framework for assessing similar debris flow events and designing effective risk mitigation strategies in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
La "Grotta dell'affresco": Il fenomeno del monachesimo sul confine tra il Ducato di Amalfi e il Principato di Salerno
A significant discovery of medieval material culture, including a rare fresco, has been made in the 'Grotta dell'affresco' on the Amalfi Coast. This cave complex, situated between Cetara and Maiori, provides notable evidence of Byzantine monasticism that flourished along the boundary of the Duchy of Amalfi and the Principality of Salerno during the late 9th to 11th centuries. The study reveals a broader pattern of religious settlements in Campania, characterized by relic translations, Byzantine saint cults, and the arrival of specialized craftsmen. Despite the challenging terrain, which has hindered systematic research on high-altitude cave occupations, this site offers valuable insights into Oriental troglodyte monastic practices.
Louis Kahn en la costa de Amalfi (1929)
A new analysis of Louis Kahn's 1929 sketches from the Amalfi Coast reveals previously unidentified locations and provides more precise details for ten drawings. The study sheds light on Kahn's artistic intent, graphic style, and influences, including techniques popularized in 1920s America, while also examining the potential impact of these travel drawings on his later architectural projects. This research builds upon earlier work by Jan Hochstim (1991) and an exhibition in Chicago and New York (1996), offering a deeper understanding of Kahn's early engagement with Italian landscapes.
Un viaggio attraverso la Costiera Amalfitana
A strong sense of identity and pride among residents of the Amalfi Coast, reinforced by UNESCO recognition, plays a pivotal role in sustaining cultural heritage and driving tourism growth. This study highlights how local communities actively promote their region despite economic disparities, such as the North-South divide, to attract visitors. The research confirms that foreign tourists prioritize the region's natural beauty and cultural appeal over socio-economic challenges, contributing to its rise in global recognition—Positano, for instance, earned a spot in TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards. Statistical data on tourism trends further validate this upward trajectory, underscoring the interplay between heritage preservation, local initiative, and international appeal.
Context-aware computing for improving the touristic experience: A pervasive app for the Amalfi coast
A context-aware computing approach enhances the touristic experience by dynamically adapting itineraries and services to individual user needs, leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm. This study demonstrates that personalized content delivery improves engagement on the Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Southern Italy. The research introduces an adaptive system capable of tracking contextual changes—such as user preferences or environmental factors—to tailor real-time recommendations. Experimental validation confirms the effectiveness of this method in optimizing travel experiences, offering a scalable model for other heritage sites.
Strategy of Sustainable Development of an Industrial Archaeology
A sustainable development strategy for the Valle dei Mulini, a 12th-century industrial archaeology site in Gragnano, Italy, demonstrates how historic hydraulic mills can be repurposed to generate electricity while preserving cultural heritage. The approach combines 're-learn' and 're-value,' aiming to spread knowledge of the territory, enhance local identity, and promote eco-conscious tourism. By integrating the mills into a broader tourism network—including lesser-known sites like Campi Flegrei and the Amalfi Coast—the strategy seeks to restore artifacts, remediate the ecosystem, and ensure long-term safeguarding. This case study offers a model for balancing industrial heritage preservation with renewable energy production in culturally significant landscapes.
The influence of community factors on the engagement of residents in place promotion: Empirical evidence from an Italian heritage site
Residents' engagement in promoting the Amalfi Coast, an Italian UNESCO World Heritage Site, is significantly influenced by their community commitment, environmental attitudes, and perceptions of existing place marketing communications. This study highlights how these factors shape residents' willingness to act as ambassadors for tourism, offering critical insights for destination management and policy makers. The research employed empirical methods to analyze the relationships between these community factors and resident engagement, contributing to a broader understanding of effective collaboration in heritage site promotion.
An Adaptive Context Aware App for the Tourism
An adaptive mobile application for tourism, developed using the Context Dimension Tree framework, demonstrates significant potential to enhance user experience by tailoring recommendations based on real-time location and user profiles. The app's effectiveness was validated through a case study in Praiano, part of Italy's UNESCO-listed Costiera Amalfitana, involving diverse tourist groups such as Italian and foreign visitors. Experimental results highlight its ability to customize services dynamically, addressing individual preferences and contextual factors. This approach offers a promising solution for sustainable tourism management by balancing personalization with resource optimization.
Chemical Composition and in Vitro Antimicrobial, Cytotoxic, and Central Nervous System Activities of the Essential Oils of Citrus medica L. cv. ‘Liscia’ and C. medica cv. ‘Rugosa’ Cultivated in Southern Italy
Essential oils (EOs) from two Citrus medica cultivars, 'liscia' and 'rugosa,' cultivated along the Amalfi Coast, show promising antimicrobial properties against key pathogens, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus cereus strains. These findings validate traditional uses of citron peels as food preservatives and suggest potential for EOs in medical applications. The study identified 100 compounds in the oils, with limonene (62.8–67.2%) and camphene (8.5–10.9%) as dominant constituents. Additionally, 'rugosa' EO demonstrated dose-dependent inhibitory effects on bacterial growth and influenced adenylate cyclase 1 (ADCY1) expression in neuronal cells, hinting at neuroactive properties of limonene. The research employed GC-MS analysis to characterize the oils and in vitro assays to assess antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and CNS activities.
Evaluation and mapping of cultural services in terraced landscapes. The case study of the Amalfi Coast
A novel approach to evaluating and mapping cultural services in terraced landscapes, using the Amalfi Coast as a case study, reveals that these landscapes provide significant socio-economic and ecological benefits. The research identifies complex values and services through ecosystem service theory, integrating multi-criteria evaluation with spatial analysis in GIS. Community engagement via semi-structured questionnaires and collaborative mapping tools (VGI) highlights the interrelationship between local communities and their terraced environments. This method offers a practical framework for conserving and managing these evolving landscapes, which are at risk due to changing socio-economic conditions.
Field Surveys and Numerical Modeling of Pumiceous Debris Flows in Amalfi Coast (Italy)
A numerical model successfully predicted the propagation and deposition of pumiceous debris flows (DFs) on the Amalfi Coast, Italy, demonstrating its potential for risk assessment in similar contexts. The study employed cost-effective techniques—terrestrial laser scanning and UAV photogrammetry—to survey pre- and post-event topography, enabling precise estimation of DF volumes, peak flow depths, and deposit depths. Using a depth-averaged propagation model (FLATModel), the researchers calibrated the simulation with both Voellmy and Coulomb friction resistance laws, achieving strong agreement between predicted and observed deposits. This approach offers a practical tool for forecasting run-out distances in steep channels, critical for mitigating risks to infrastructure like the busy road overtopped by frequent DFs.
In-between soil erosion and sustainable land management: climate aridity and vegetation in a traditional agro-forest system (Costiera Amalfitana, southern Italy)
A study on the Amalfi Coast reveals that bioclimatic delineation is crucial for sustainable land management, particularly in areas prone to soil erosion. Researchers analyzed long-term climate data (1959–1999) from 28 stations, correlating rainfall and temperature patterns with topography, vegetation cover, and erosion. Using geographic information systems and multivariate statistics, they derived bioclimatic indicators and identified challenges in their methodology, proposing solutions to enhance accuracy. The findings underscore the importance of integrating climate data with physical and biological factors to inform policies for complex socio-ecological systems, offering a framework for mitigating erosion risks while preserving traditional agro-forest landscapes.
The 9 September 2010 torrential rain and flash flood in the Dragone catchment, Atrani, Amalfi Coast (southern Italy)
A flash flood on September 9, 2010, in the Dragone catchment of Atrani, Italy, mobilized approximately 25,000 cubic meters of sediment with a peak flow velocity comparable to clear-water floods. The event, characterized by an intense one-hour rainfall peak of nearly 120 mm/h, resulted in a hyperconcentrated flow with a total discharge of 80 m³/s and a sediment bulking factor of 1.2. The study employed a multi-hazard approach, integrating geological data, post-event surveys, eyewitness accounts, and homemade videos to analyze the flood's impact. High topographic relief and coastal water anomalies influenced the convective system, contributing to the catastrophic nature of the event. This research highlights the significant sediment transport and velocity dynamics in flash floods along the Amalfi Coast, offering insights into the region's frequent alluvial fan flooding hazards.
Towards a Media-Archaeology of Sirenic Articulations Listening with Media-Archaeological Ears
A media-archaeological expedition to the Li Galli islands off Italy's Amalfi coast revealed surprising acoustic properties that challenge traditional interpretations of Homeric Sirens' mythical singing. Using positivistic measurement technologies, researchers mapped the sonosphere of this 'acoustic theatre,' uncovering new evidence about its sound environment. The study demonstrates how media archaeology and cultural aesthetics intersect: while precise measurements provide empirical data, they gain meaning only when contextualized with historical knowledge. This dual approach offers a novel framework for understanding the acoustic dimensions of ancient myths.
Valutazione e mappatura dei servizi culturali nei paesaggi terrazzati. Il caso studio della Costiera Amalfitana
A study on the UNESCO-listed terrazzato landscapes of the Amalfi Coast reveals that these 'living evolving cultural landscapes' are at risk due to changing socio-economic conditions, threatening their sustainability. The research identifies and maps cultural ecosystem services (ESS) using a multi-criteria valuation approach combined with spatial analysis via GIS, integrating local community input through semi-structured questionnaires and collaborative mapping tools like Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI). This method allows for the visualization of complex human-landscape relationships, providing actionable insights for conservation efforts. The findings underscore the importance of balancing development with heritage preservation while engaging local stakeholders in sustainable management strategies.
Contextual Aware Computing and Tourism: A Case Study
An adaptive mobile application leveraging the Context Dimension Tree (CDT) successfully enhances personalized tourism experiences on the Amalfi Coast, particularly in Praiano. The app dynamically tailors recommendations based on users' real-time location and profiles, accommodating diverse tourist groups such as Italian and foreign visitors. Experimental results demonstrated its effectiveness, offering a scalable model for context-aware computing in heritage tourism. This approach bridges technological innovation with cultural preservation, providing a data-driven solution to improve visitor engagement while respecting site-specific characteristics.
Plant selection for ethnobotanical uses on the Amalfi Coast (Southern Italy)
Plant selection for ethnobotanical uses on the Amalfi Coast is not primarily driven by phylogeny, according to a study that compared statistical methods using medicinal and non-medicinal plant datasets. The research found that while Lamiaceae was consistently over-used in medicinal contexts across both floras studied, other families like Malvaceae and Poaceae showed inconsistencies depending on the dataset and method used. Regression analysis emerged as the most conservative approach for interpreting results. Additionally, the study revealed a non-random selection of woody species for non-medicinal uses and an under-use of temperate forest plants for medicinal purposes.
Una Proposta Metodologica per la Valutazione dei Landscape Services nel Paesaggio Culturale Terrazzato
A novel methodological approach for assessing landscape services in terraced cultural landscapes reveals that regulatory, maintenance, and provisioning services are critical for their preservation. The study, applied to the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast, highlights the vulnerability of these landscapes due to socio-economic transformations while emphasizing their role as resilient models shaped over centuries. By integrating international frameworks (UNESCO, ITLA, GIAHS FAO), the research underscores the urgent need to document, evaluate, and safeguard the complex benefits offered by terraced systems to prevent irreversible loss.
A Systems Approach to Local Territory as a Driver for Creative Tourism Development on the Amalfi Coast
Creative tourism, when rooted in local cultural and geographical contexts, can significantly drive economic growth and sustainable development. A study on the Amalfi Coast (Italy) demonstrates that successful implementation of creative tourism requires a systems approach, leveraging existing local creativity rather than imposing external models. The research highlights the importance of a 'creative humus'—a foundation of local traditions, social dynamics, and cultural assets—that must be nurtured for such initiatives to thrive. While creative tourism offers potential benefits, its effectiveness hinges on aligning strategies with pre-existing creative potentials; otherwise, it risks inefficiency and resource waste. The study underscores that territorial creativity, rather than generic interventions, is key to sustainable tourism development.
Efficiency Analysis for Sustainable Mobility — The Design of a Mechanical Vector in Amalfi Coast (Italy)
A mechanical vector designed for Vietri sul Mare on Italy's Amalfi Coast demonstrates significant potential to decongest road traffic and reduce travel times, addressing critical sustainable mobility challenges. The study introduces an economic evaluation model using inter-sectorial matrices to assess the impacts of investments in infrastructure, aiming to encourage public-private partnerships. This approach is essential given the scarcity of public funds, as it provides a framework for evaluating the territorial economic benefits of such interventions. By analyzing input (investment costs) and output (economic impacts), the model offers a practical solution for sustainable mobility projects in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Costiera Amalfitana.
Simulation of flash floods in ungauged basins using post‐event surveys and numerical modelling
A novel approach combining post-event surveys and numerical modeling successfully simulates flash floods in ungauged basins, offering potential for predicting future events. The study focuses on the 2010 flash flood that affected Atrani village along Italy's Amalfi Coast, where conventional measurement networks proved inadequate due to the event's small spatial and temporal scales. Researchers used a width function instantaneous unit hydrograph (WFIUH) rainfall-runoff model to derive flow hydrographs for upstream areas, which were then inputted into a two-dimensional hydraulic model. This unstructured mesh approach allowed for detailed simulation of water flow within the village's narrow alleyways, with results aligning closely with field observations. The method demonstrates promise for application in similar contexts, providing a tool for risk assessment and mitigation in vulnerable coastal regions.
The red coral populations of the gulfs of Naples and Salerno: human impact and deep mass mortalities
A significant decline in red coral (Corallium rubrum) populations, with densities dropping to fewer than five colonies per square meter in most areas of the Gulf of Naples, highlights severe stress likely exacerbated by water pollution and sedimentation. Healthy populations were only found around the Phlegrean Islands (Ischia and Procida), while historical coral banks showed extensive mortality. A recent mass mortality event along the Amalfi coast, affecting 80% of colonies estimated to be 70 years old, suggests potential causes such as localized downwelling currents or sudden warm water emissions linked to volcanic activity. The study used Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) surveys in 2010 and 2012 to assess coral health across 25 sites, revealing the impact of human activities like trawling and fishing on these deep-sea ecosystems.
The role of travel and mobility in processes of identity formation among the Positanesi
Tourism has fundamentally reshaped Positano, a small coastal village on Italy's Amalfi Coast, transforming it into a globalized network and altering the identities of its residents. The study reveals that continuous tourist flows have created intergenerational divides, with older and younger inhabitants experiencing contrasting impacts on their lifestyles and economic dependence. Using ethnographic methods—including visual imagery and narratives—the research highlights how mobility in postmodern societies serves as a catalyst for identity formation among locals, particularly in high-traffic tourist destinations like Positano. This work contributes to the anthropology of tourism by examining the complex dynamics between residents and visitors in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Traditional techniques and materials in the Amalfi Coast: The Norman Tower in Maiori
A distinct architectural style unique to Italy has emerged on the Amalfi Coast, shaped by its southeastern exposure, towering mountains forming fjord-like landscapes, and prevailing southern winds. This study examines how these geographical factors have influenced traditional building techniques and materials, focusing on the Norman Tower in Maiori as a case study. The research highlights the region's sustainable architectural heritage, offering insights into how natural conditions have historically guided construction practices.
Approaches for mapping suscepibility to rockfalls initiation in carbonate rock-masses. A case study from the from the Sorrento coast (southern Italy)
A new combined approach for mapping susceptibility to rockfall initiation in carbonate rock-masses has been found more accurate than standard methods, particularly in the high-risk, densely populated and touristic areas of the Sorrento coast, Italy. This study integrated Romana's Slope Mass Rating (SMR) and Matheson's graphical tests, indexing their respective susceptibility classes while also considering joint sets and macro-structural features like faults and master joints. Statistical analysis of historical rockfalls in the test area validated this method, offering a more precise tool for assessing unstable slopes and guiding remedial interventions.
Derivation of critical rainfall thresholds for shallow landslides as a tool for debris flow early warning systems
Researchers have developed a novel method to derive critical rainfall thresholds (CRT) for shallow landslides, which can be used as a tool for debris flow early warning systems. This approach overcomes limitations associated with empirical methods when historical data is scarce or environmental conditions change over time. The methodology involves mathematical and numerical simulations based on the infinite-slope stability model, where slope instability is governed by increased groundwater pressure due to rainfall. The effect of rainfall infiltration on landslide occurrence is modeled using a reduced form of the Richards equation. The study investigates the range of rainfall durations for which this method can be accurately employed and derives an equation for its lower limit. A large number of simulations were performed, combining different values of rainfall characteristics such as intensity and duration of event rainfall, as well as antecedent rainfall intensity. For each combination, the percentage of basin instability was computed, forming a database used to derive CRT curves. The methodology was tested in a small basin on the Amalfi Coast, Italy, showing good agreement with observed rainfall amounts during a playback period. The study also highlights that the lack of knowledge about soil parameter variability can significantly affect results, which is partially mitigated by using a Monte Carlo approach.
Event Tourism and Cultural Tourism
Event tourism and cultural tourism significantly impact rural communities, offering a framework for sustainable development. The study introduces a preliminary model of event management that leverages destination and event image congruence to enhance visitor experience and local economic benefits. It also explores the role of innovation and creativity in festival organizations, demonstrating their potential to drive territorial marketing and attract tourism. Case studies, including the Ravello Festival on Italy's Amalfi Coast and the Innibos Arts Festival, illustrate how cultural events can serve as powerful tools for regional promotion and sustainable growth. The research employs a mix of theoretical models, such as the VICE model, and empirical analyses to provide actionable insights for stakeholders in tourism management.
Cultural Event as a Territorial Marketing Tool: The Case of the Ravello Festival on the Italian Amalfi Coast
The Ravello Festival serves as a powerful territorial marketing tool, significantly enhancing the competitiveness and global recognition of the Amalfi Coast. This study demonstrates that cultural events can strengthen local identity while promoting both tangible and intangible resources of a region. By analyzing the festival's history, management, and supply system, researchers highlight its strategic role in positioning Ravello as a 'City of Music.' The findings underscore the coherence between the festival's strengths and Ravello's development strategy, emphasizing its ability to attract international attention and boost tourism.
Napoli 2011: Servizi di trasporto per il turismo - il Metrò del Mare
A decade after its implementation, the 'Metrò del Mare' sea transport service in Campania has proven effective in reducing road congestion and environmental pollution while enhancing tourist accessibility to UNESCO-listed coastal sites. This study evaluates the service's impact on traffic mitigation along congested routes like the A3 highway and coastal roads, demonstrating its potential as an alternative to private vehicle use. By analyzing expanded service offerings—including more destinations and route types—the research highlights its role in sustainable tourism, offering insights into integrated public transport solutions for high-traffic coastal regions.
Brand and image: the strategic factors in destination marketing
Destination branding and image emerge as powerful catalysts for promotion and development, particularly when leveraged collaboratively by stakeholders. A study analyzing the Amalfi Coast—part of Italy's UNESCO World Heritage Site, Costiera Amalfitana—demonstrates that strategic factors such as quality, identity, and brand can drive sustainable growth in tourism destinations. The research builds on theoretical frameworks to identify key practices in destination marketing, validating their potential through empirical investigation. By examining the Amalfi Coast case, the study highlights how these strategic levers foster stakeholder collaboration, offering a model for other heritage sites aiming to balance conservation with economic development.
Trees, Nuts, And Woods At The End Of The First Millennium: A Case From The Amalfi Coast
Medieval charters from the Amalfi Coast reveal that chestnut groves (Castanea sativa) were once a dominant land use across southern Campania, including the Lattari mountains and low valleys. Contrary to later declines in the 20th century, historical records suggest this tree thrived extensively along the peninsula, Salerno, Picentini, and Avellino regions. The study analyzes one key charter to reconstruct broader patterns of chestnut cultivation, highlighting its ecological and economic significance during the first millennium's close.
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