1h
English, Italian
Unlimited
Equipped beach
Suitable for children
Suitable for couples
Pets allowed
Parking available
Barrier-free
Language supports
Free access
Within walking distance of the historic center of Sorrento, rises the small Ancient village of Marina Grande. Although close, this hamlet is totally different from the city center. The crowded and noisy narrow streets with souvenir stores, tourists, and glitzy-looking restaurants contrast sharply with the atmosphere of this small and wonderful seaside village, which is instead quiet and full of color, history, and tradition.
The delightful fishing village of Marina Grande can only be a favorite stop on a tour of the beautiful Sorrento Peninsula.
Access is also allowed through the Old Village Gate, built in the 15th century with blocks of tufa and limestone. The medieval gate was in its time, the only access. Today the village can be accessed in other ways as well, but this certainly remains the most impressive. A double arch built with square blocks all equal to each other calls this gate "isodomic" and is clear evidence of Greek influence in construction techniques. The Borgo overlooks the bay of Marina Grande which is a beautiful beach that is very popular in the summer months. At night the lights of the gulf make this promenade truly romantic. Typical alleys and small restaurants make it a perfect place for lovers but it is also very pleasant to walk there in the morning when the cheerful colors of the fishermen's houses can be admired at their best.
The local maritime tradition has its origins in this very seaside village where the famous Gozzo Sorrentino. The small rowing boat with lateen sail possesses sharp stern and bow, still measured in Neapolitan palms (which correspond approximately to 26.4 centimeters). Marina Grande was once the main site of the shipyards from where the gozzo boats came. Today, production has moved to more industrialized places nevertheless Marina Grande remains the cradle of this seafaring culture.
To get to Marina Grande it is advisable to use the footpath in order to admire the points of interest and the beautiful view of the place. Along the way you pass through ancient narrow passages between houses and then overlook the sea and then the beautiful village. However, one should not forget to visit the Medieval Village Gate.
It is said that on the night of June 13, 1558, Saracen pirates managed to enter the Sorrento Peninsula through the Medieval Gate, thanks to the complicity of a traitorous servant. The pirates brought death and destruction by plundering every asset.
Most of the scenes of the historic film "Bread, Love and Fantasy" were filmed in Marina Grande. Even today, the emblematic locations are marked by indicative signs.
