The ancient connection between Massa and Sorrento: a simple walk through the “middle ways”, the same paths used by locals to reach the town of Sorrento, until the early decades of the last century.
The walk from Massa to Sorrento starts from the main square of Massa centro, Piazza Vescovado. Following Viale Filangieri and keeping to the left, you will reach a small votive shrine, on the left of which is Via Molini.
After about 600 meters, via Molini becomes via Arorella. The lane continues uphill through gardens planted with olive and citrus trees, until it reaches via Bagnulo.
Continue to the left following the lane that crosses the small hill called Montecorbo, whose highest point reaches 243 meters above sea level. The origin of the name “Montecorbo” or “Monte Corvo” is probably due to the presence of crows: they used to come from Central and Northern Europe in the late fall and then leave in the spring, nesting in this area. In 1577 the poet Torquato Tasso stayed on this scenic and green hill, in an estate belonging to the Sersale family.
Until 1865, via Montecorbo was the most important link between Sorrento and Massa centro. It was already known in previous times, as it was part of the ancient Via Minervia, the pilgrims’ route to reach the sanctuary of Athena, probably located on the promontory of Punta Campanella.
After about 1.5 kilometers, without excessive change in altitude, you come on the main road via Nastro Verde. After crossing this road, take the path down to Sorrento, crossing Capodimonte area.
This path, enriched by the green of the gardens and orchards and by the scent of the Mediterranean scrub, is characterized by beautiful panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples. The islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida dominate the horizon.
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