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.

Mammato, A., & Abate, N. (2018). La “Grotta dell’affresco”: Il fenomeno del monachesimo sul confine tra il Ducato di Amalfi e il Principato di Salerno. Hortus Artium Medievalium, 24, 199–208. https://doi.org/10.1484/j.ham.5.115949