Of all the resorts located on the coast of the Riviera de Ulysses, the pretty town of Gaeta (Italy) is especially popular. Even experienced travelers lose their breath at the sight of unique sights that have made the look of a paradise unique.
A bit of history
In the coastal village, located on the shores of the Gulf of Gaetan, on the rocky cape Monte Orlando, the first inhabitants appeared in the VIII century BC. According to ancient legends, passed down from generation to generation, the city was founded by the hero of the Trojan war, Aeneas, who buried here his beloved nurse Gaeta. Later, a small settlement belonged to Constantinople, was part of the territory of Sicily, survived the raids of the invaders, ravaging it.
It was a fortified fort protecting the entrance to the bay, and hostilities did not stop for a long time. Many wanted to take possession of the territory located on the inaccessible part of the Tyrrhenian coast. The Norman conquerors, on the contrary, invested huge fortunes in the development of the city, and thanks to them luxurious palaces and religious monuments appeared on the territory.
In 1861, the free Gaeta (Italy) became part of the Italian kingdom, and in the 20th century - a famous seaside resort with a developed infrastructure.
Tourist centre
Located at 70 kilometers from Naples, the miniature town of Gaeta with a population of about 20 thousand inhabitants welcomes tourists from May to November, when the swimming season ends. A comfortable climate, characterized by a large number of sunny days and the absence of sweltering heat, adds appeal to the eyes of visitors.
The resort, which offers a carefree holiday, is loved by tourists from different countries who want to spend leisure time in an exciting way.
Gaeta beaches
Part of the Tyrrhenian Sea, washing the resort, is considered a reserve and is protected by the well-known environmental organization WWF. The coastline extends for several kilometers, and here everyone will find a place to relax in Gaeta. Gaeta (reviews of tourists only confirm this) - a city famous for its beaches, which over the past years have been awarded the international Blue Flag award. Swimming in the turquoise waters and having fun all day long helps to satisfy all the desires of vacationers.
The lively Serapo beach with white sand, gently shelving, showers, umbrellas and sunbeds protecting from the sun is the most popular among vacationers with children. Here you can ride a boat or pedalo, and in the evening relax in the many bars and cafes offering national dishes.
And those who seek solitude go to the compact Fontana beach, where it is best to take a place in the sun from early morning. True, comfort lovers will be disappointed because there are no showers and catering establishments.
The miniature Ariana beach, located between steep cliffs, attracts lovers of beauty, admiring the peaks of the magnificent views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
A city with a rich historical heritage
Gaeta (Italy) provides an opportunity to enjoy not only a relaxing holiday on the beach, but also architectural sights of different eras. The excursion program is very interesting for guests of the ancient city, who are first acquainted with it. The rich historical heritage was reflected in ancient monuments, and each building silently tells about the events of past eras.
To navigate well in the city, you must purchase a map of attractions in Russian. This information is useful for single travelers who are independently acquainted with the resort, divided into several areas.
What to see?
Charming Gaeta (Italy), whose sights tell about its history, can even boast the ruins of an ancient water supply system that appeared during the period of the great Roman Empire.
The main object from which the acquaintance begins is a military fort that protected the city from pirate raids. Now the defensive structure serves as a memory of the heroic past.
St. Francis Cathedral, built at the beginning of the 13th century, delights with its special beauty and power. Its entrance is decorated with a statue of a monk, driving away, according to ancient legends, evil spirits from the city.
Chopped mountain
Among religious monuments, the Annuatsita Cathedral, erected in the 20s of the 14th century on donations from local residents, stands apart. It is famous for a small chapel, which was built on a stone detached from the cliff of Orlando during the crucifixion of Christ. On the cobblestone there is a palm print of a Turkish sailor who did not believe that the huge mountain could split into two parts. When the hard stone turned into soft, a man’s hand entered it, and all the tourists who certainly come to worship the holy place observe this trail.
Next to the rock is the sanctuary (sanctuary) of the Holy Trinity, founded by the monks of Gaeta (Italy) in the ruins of an ancient Roman villa. In the middle of the XIX century, a corridor called “The Way of the Cross” was built in front of the mountain, and more than a dozen installed icons will tell about all the suffering of Jesus.
Gaet Guide: Where to live?
The city is famous for a huge number of hotels, and every tourist will be able to find accommodation for every taste and budget. Some choose comfortable rooms located in ancient buildings, while others stay in inexpensive bungalows by the sea or multi-story buildings.
Grand Hotel Le Rocce 4 * is not just one of the best hotels, but a whole complex consisting of several buildings. From the windows of rooms, the cost of which starts from 400 euros, you can enjoy wonderful views of the coast.
Those who want to wake up to the sound of the waves choose modest bungalows in Aeneas Landing 3 *. This is a great option for those who dream of comfort and privacy.
Villa Irlanda Gaeta 4 * - the most famous hotel in the city, which celebrated its centenary five years ago. It is located near the sea and is surrounded by a green oasis with an area of 60 thousand m2. Located in a neoclassical building, it will appeal to those who do not save on housing.
Incredibly popular Serapo 3 * is located on the beach of the same name, and hotel rooms (cost from 145 euros) are booked for several months.
What do you need to know?
Those who want to go to a paradise will need a visa (60 euros), and tourists with a Schengen can immediately buy tickets.
Vacationers should remember the afternoon siesta, during which all establishments, without exception, are closed, and local residents relax.
You can take advantage of a 24-hour car rental without a deposit, but the cheapest way to travel is by bus. Many vacationers drive around the city on rented bicycles.
Gaeta, Italy: reviews
Most tourists agree that the resort, which is easy to get around on foot, is a very cozy and welcoming place. Narrow streets, as if descended from ancient frescoes, are carried over to past eras, and it seems that Gaeta is about to reveal her secrets, which she carefully hid. Many even call for abandoning the use of public transport in order to feel the spirit of the ancient city.
Reading the reviews of tourists about the city of Gaeta (Italy), you can find out about unusual dishes that must be tasted by all vacationers. Amazing delicacies that amaze even gourmets are offered in any bar or restaurant. Visitors praise delicious pizza, salads, pastries with various fillings, salsicci (sausage cooked in wine with spices). The average double check is approximately 50 euros. In addition, tourists recommend visiting the wine restaurants, famous for the true Italian atmosphere, and taste the famous sparkling drinks.
The resort with a convenient location, excellent climate, cultural traditions is recognized as one of the best in the world, and no one regrets the time spent here.