La Caravella
AN unparalleled historic building in the West
La Caravella is just a few steps from the Ancient Arsenals of the Republic located at the entrance of the ancient center of the City, a building unmatched in the entire West. It is situated in a historically significant context. The Piccolomini Palace was a Ducal Palace in the 12th century and is now a Historic Residence.
The Restaurant is housed within an ancient setting: the Fundaco de Capro, a sort of warehouse and welcoming place for foreign merchants, belonging to the Caprese de Filetto Family and dating back to the 12th century. At the end of the 15th century, it was incorporated into the Ducal Palace of the Piccolomini, now recognized as a Historic Residence.
“La Caravella” is therefore an integral part of the Piccolomini Palace, dating back to the 12th century – as confirmed by historian Prof. Giuseppe Gargano.
History Renewed
a history spanning over 60 years
The structure of the Restaurant has remained, in many respects, faithful to that of 1959, the year of its founding, but over time it has benefited from numerous restorations and technological innovations. In particular, the frescoed ceilings, among the oldest on the Amalfi Coast, have undergone a long and meticulous restoration, lasting almost 15 years and completed in 2019.
The interventions involved various areas of the venue: the Sala delle Riggiole, the San Francesco Hall (dedicated to the Father), the lounge dedicated to Andy Warhol, the kitchen, and the entrance. Now adorning these vaults are the frescoes by the Piedmontese artist Luca Mancini, created in full respect of the original architecture and using exclusively ecological materials. The Artist wanted to include, among the figures of cherubs, faces inspired by local children and Antonio’s daughter, making the work even more personal and connected to the territory. In one bathroom environment, there is a rare barrel arch, considered one of the oldest ceilings on the Coast.
The “La Caravella” art gallery also has a suggestive origin: it is believed to correspond to the church of San Benedetto, part of the Fondaco di Montecassino (founded between 1082 and 1090). This is evidenced by the pointed cross vaults, precious testimonies of medieval religious architecture. The ceiling of the Caravella Art Gallery also represents one of the oldest sail structures still visible on the Amalfi Coast.
All the frescoes have been carefully restored, fully respecting the historical identity of the palace and using sustainable techniques. After the restoration of the decorations, a modern LED lighting system was installed, enhancing every artistic and architectural detail of this historic residence.