Piazza Tasso

The Square's Identity and History

What is the story behind the name?
The square is named after Torquato Tasso, a very famous Italian poet who was born in Sorrento in 1544. He is considered one of the city's most celebrated figures.

I see the statue of Torquato Tasso. Why was he so important, beyond just being a poet from here? What is his story?
Torquato Tasso is remembered as one of the greatest poets of the late Italian Renaissance, a period of great artistic and cultural rebirth. His most famous work is an epic poem called Gerusalemme Liberata ("Jerusalem Delivered"), about the First Crusade. However, his life story is deeply tied to the history of the region. His father was part of a movement against the Spanish Inquisition, a powerful court set up by the church to punish heresy. This forced his family to flee Sorrento when he was a child. This personal turmoil and his travels across Italy are reflected in his emotional writing, which explores themes of love, religion, and despair. He died in 1595, just days before he was to be crowned "King of Poets" by the Pope, adding a final tragic chapter to his life.

Is this the main meeting point?
Yes, this is absolutely the heart of Sorrento. It's a busy hub where roads connect, and it's where both locals and visitors gather, shop, and start their excursions. During the day it's a busy intersection, but in the evening it becomes a central place for people to take a relaxing stroll.

How old is the square and was there a castle?
The square itself is relatively modern; it was built around 1866. It sits on the site of a much older place. Before the square existed, this area was known as "Largo del Castello," which means Castle Square. There was indeed a 15th-century fortress here, built by the Aragonese (a royal house that ruled this region centuries ago), but it was torn down in 1843 to make way for the modern road and square.

This place has had different names. What was life like here before it became the elegant Piazza Tasso?
Before 1866, this area was completely different. Where the square now stands, the city was dominated by the imposing Aragonese castle, which served as a military defense for the town. Below it, in the valley you see today, was a vital center of community life. The valley contained working mills for grain and wood, and it was directly connected to the Marina Piccola port, making it a busy industrial and social hub. The creation of Piazza Tasso transformed the area from a military and industrial zone into the civil and commercial center it is today.

Building a square over a deep gorge seems like a huge project. Why did they do it, and were there any problems?
The decision to build the square was part of a major modernization effort in the 19th century, which included demolishing the old castle and creating the main road, Corso Italia. The project was very ambitious, as it involved filling in part of the deep valley below to create the open space. They did run into problems. Historical sources say that the new square suffered a "structural failure" after it was built. This is the reason Torquato Tasso's statue, which was originally meant for the center of the square, had to be moved to a corner. It was relocated several times before being placed where it stands today.

Statues and Monuments

Who are the two main statues of?

• The statue in the middle of the square is of Saint Antoninus (or Sant'Antonio in Italian). He is the patron saint of Sorrento, which means he is considered the special protector of the city.

• The other statue of a man with a book, located in a corner of the square, is Torquato Tasso, the poet the square is named after. His statue was placed here in 1870.

You mentioned Saint Antoninus is the patron saint. Are there any specific legends about how he protected the city?
Yes, there are many incredible stories about him. Saint Antoninus lived in the 6th century and came to Sorrento seeking safety during a period of invasions. The local people believe he has saved the city from many dangers. The most famous miracle is a story of him rescuing a young child who had been swallowed by a whale. He is also credited with saving Sorrento from a naval invasion by Moorish forces, the plague, cholera, and even demonic possession. These legends are why he is so deeply honored by the people of Sorrento.

What is that old clock tower?
That impressive tower is the bell tower for Sorrento's Cathedral. It is not part of the square, but it's a very important landmark on the nearby Corso Italia. Its lower parts are very old, dating back to the 11th century, and it once served as a central meeting place for the community in medieval times.

Surrounding Sights

What is the deep green valley?
The square is built over a deep, natural gorge or ravine. This is the "Vallone dei Mulini," which in Italian means "Valley of the Mills". It was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago and then carved out by two streams.

The abandoned mills in the valley are fascinating. How did this once-bustling area become so isolated and overgrown?
The turning point was the construction of Piazza Tasso in 1866. Building the square on top of the gorge completely cut the valley off from the town center and the sea breezes. This physical isolation caused humidity levels to rise dramatically, making the area uninhabitable and leading to the abandonment of the mills in the early 20th century. Now, the ruins are covered in dense vegetation, including a rare type of fern that thrives in the damp conditions. It is a clear example of how human development can completely change a natural landscape.

What are the notable buildings around the square?

• The yellow church is the Church of Santa Maria del Carmine, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, a highly decorative style from the 17th and 18th centuries.

• The Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria is the very grand, historic hotel perched on the cliff edge. It has hosted many famous guests, including Princess Margaret and Oscar Wilde.

Things to Do

Where do the narrow streets lead?
The small, cobbled streets that lead off the square are the entrance to Sorrento's historic old town (centro storico). The most famous one is Via San Cesareo, a pedestrian-only street that is the main shopping area, full of little shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and food.

What about the little white train?
The little white train is a tourist tram that offers a 30-minute tour around the town. It departs from Piazza Tasso and takes you through the old town and down to the Marina Piccola (the small port), with commentary in English and other languages.

What is the square like at night?
At night, the square has a completely different atmosphere. After 7:30 PM, most vehicle traffic is stopped, and the square becomes a large pedestrian area. This is when locals enjoy their traditional evening stroll, known as the passeggiata. The square comes alive with people relaxing at the many bars and restaurants, making it a perfect spot for people-watching.

What local food or drink should I try?
The cafes right on the square, like the famous Fauno Bar, are perfect for grabbing a coffee or a drink and soaking in the atmosphere. A classic local dish to look for is Gnocchi alla Sorrentina or a fresh seafood risotto. And of course, you must try something made with the famous Sorrento lemons, like a refreshing limoncello liqueur.