Photos courtesy of Belmond Hotel Caruso
In the 11th century a patrician Roman family set out for Constantinople—then the center of the once mighty Roman empire—when their ship was wrecked during a storm. The family settled in Ravello and built the Palazzo d’Afflito (its name means “afflicted”). Later, the Republic of Pisa, one of the warfaring nations of the time, destroyed the palace and much of Ravello and Amalfi. Reconstruction began in the mid-16th century, followed by a devastating earthquake and centuries of neglect.
In 1893, hotelier and vineyard owner, Pantaleone Caruso and his wife, Emilia Cicalese, opened its doors as a hotel by renting five rooms in one of the palace’s wings. The hotel slowly became a hit. Illustrious visitors who have enjoyed the palace-hotel include Leopold Stokowski, King Umberto II of Savoy, Greta Garbo, Humphrey Bogart, and Jackie Kennedy.
Pamela’s Perspective
The former Hotel Caruso Belvedere has now become the Hotel Caruso Ravello. Orient-Express Hotels acquired the property and land and invested US$30 million into a four-year complete renovation. Here is an example of a former palace becoming a palace. This is an exquisite hotel (with prices to match) to savor for a special event in your life.
During the hotel renovation, foundations of medieval stone walls were uncovered, as well as some 18th-century frescoes. The frescoes are considered the earliest paintings yet found in Ravello. Check to see if any of these artifacts are yet on display at the hotel.
Belmond Hotel Caruso
An 11th-century palace
Contact
Piazza San Giovanni del Toro
84010 Ravello
(Salerno)
Tel: ++39 089 858 800
Hotel website
Reserve with Booking.com
Fast facts
52 rooms, including 9 suites, 17 junior suites, 26 double rooms
Double rooms: from 475 euros
Suites: from 950 euros
Rates include service and full
American breakfast. VAT tax
is an additional 10%.
1/2 and full board available
Open: first week of April to beginning of November
Getting there
Ravello is 7 km uphill from Amalfi. Bus service is available. The hotel is well signposted.
What to do
On site: swimming pool;
fitness center
Nearby: Villa Rufolo; Villa
Cimbione; Positano; Amalfi;
Salerno; Pompeii; hiking;
horseback riding; tennis
Weddings
Yes. Inquire hotel for details.
Reopened in June 2005 after a four-year renovation, the Caruso Ravello has entered the lofty company of one of Italy’s finest hotels. No expense was spared in creating this glorious aerie 350 meters high above the Amalfi coastline.
Internationally renowned Neapolitan designer Federico Forquet chose themes and colors true to the culture of Ravello. Textiles were specially created. Local artisans crafted the bronze lamps, and tile work was fashioned using traditional methods. The Roman-style mosaics were inspired by the ruins of nearby Pompeii. The rose, light blue, and yellow hues suggest a watercolor.
A nice touch are reproductions of furniture used in the original, ancient palazzo.
Most of the spacious guest rooms have balconies or terraces with sea views. Bathrooms are thoroughly modernized and well appointed.
Although considered a “junior suite,” the Jackie O. Suite features a private pool. Perfect for a honeymoon.
Dining is al fresco when the weather is fine. Views are of the Mediterranean.
Something special
Spectacular views
A breathtaking infinity pool