Of all the resorts located on the coast of the Riviera de Ulisses, the pretty town of Gaeta (Italy) is especially popular. Even experienced travelers lose their breath at the sight of unique sights that made the appearance of a paradise place inimitable.
A bit of history
In a seaside settlement located on the shores of the Gulf of Gaeta, on the rocky cape of Monte Orlando, the first inhabitants appeared in the 8th 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 his beloved nurse Gaeta here. Later, a small settlement belonged to Constantinople, was part of the territories of Sicily, survived the raids of the invaders who devastated it.
It was a fortified fort that protected the entrance to the bay, and hostilities did not stop for a long time. Many wanted to take possession of the territory located onimpregnable 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, free Gaeta (Italy) became part of the Italian kingdom, and in the 20th century it became a famous seaside resort with developed infrastructure.
Visitor Center
Located 70 kilometers from Naples, the tiny town of Gaeta with a population of about 20 thousand inhabitants receives tourists from May to November, when the swimming season ends. The comfortable climate, characterized by a large number of sunny days and the absence of sweltering heat, adds to the attractiveness in the eyes of visitors.
A carefree resort adored by international tourists who want to have fun.
Gaeta Beaches
Part of the Tyrrhenian Sea, which washes the resort, is considered a nature reserve and is protected by the well-known environmental organization WWF. The coastline stretches for several kilometers, and here everyone will find a place to relax in Gaeta. Gaeta (tourist reviews only confirm this) is a city famous for its beaches, which have been awarded the Blue Flag international award over the past years. Swimming in turquoise waters and having fun all day long will satisfy all the desires of vacationers.
The lively Serapo beach with white sand, a gentle slope, showers, umbrellas and sun loungers protecting from the sun -the most popular among vacationers with children. Here you can ride a boat or a water bike, and in the evening relax in numerous bars and cafes offering national dishes.
And those who seek solitude go to the compact beach of Fontanya, where it is best to take a place in the sun from early morning. True, lovers of comfort will be disappointed, since there are no showers and catering establishments.
The miniature beach of Ariana, located between sheer cliffs, attracts connoisseurs of beauty, admiring the wonderful views of the Tyrrhenian Sea from the tops.
City with rich historical heritage
Gaeta (Italy) gives you the opportunity to enjoy not only a relaxing holiday on the beach, but also architectural sights from different eras. The excursion program is very interesting for the guests of the ancient city, who are getting acquainted with it for the first time. The rich historical heritage is reflected in ancient monuments, and each building silently tells about the events of past eras.
To navigate the city well, you need to purchase a sightseeing map in Russian. This information will be useful for solo travelers who independently get acquainted with the resort, divided into several areas.
What to see?
Charming Gaeta (Italy), whose sights tell about its history, even boasts the ruins of an ancient water supply system that appeared during the great Roman Empire.
The main object from which the acquaintance begins is the military fort that protectedcity from pirate raids. Now the defensive structure serves as a memory of the heroic past.
The Cathedral of St. Francis, 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 who, according to ancient legends, drives away evil spirits from the city.
Shattered Mountain
Among the religious monuments, the Annuazita Cathedral, erected in the 1420s with donations from local residents, stands apart. It is famous for a small chapel, which was built on a stone torn off the rock of Orlando during the crucifixion of Christ. On the cobblestone there is a palm print of a Turkish sailor who did not believe that a huge mountain could split into two parts. When the hard stone turned into soft, the human hand entered it, and this trail is observed by all the tourists who come to worship the holy place.
Near the rock is the sanctuary (sanctuary) of the Holy Trinity, founded by the monks of Gaeta (Italy) on the ruins of an ancient Roman villa. In the middle of the 19th century, a corridor called "The Way of the Cross" was built in front of the mountain, and more than a dozen icons installed will tell about all the sufferings of Jesus.
Guide to Gaeta: where to live?
The city is famous for its huge number of hotels, and every tourist can 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 high-risefacilities.
Grand Hotel Le Rocce 4is 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 admire wonderful views of the coast.
Those who want to wake up to the sound of 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 is the most famous hotel in the city, which celebrated its centenary five years ago. It is located near the sea and surrounded by a green oasis of 60 thousand m22. Housed in a neoclassical building, it will appeal to those who do not save on housing.
The incredibly popular Serapo 3 is located on the beach of the same name, and hotel rooms (from 145 euros) are booked months in advance.
What you need to know?
Those who want to get to a paradise place will need a visa (60 euros), and Schengen tourists can immediately buy tickets.
Holidayers should be mindful of the afternoon siesta, during which all establishments, without exception, close and the locals relax.
You can use the 24-hour car rental without a deposit, but the cheapest way to travel is by bus. Many vacationers travel 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 hospitable place. Narrow streets, as if descended fromancient frescoes are transferred to past eras, and it seems that Gaeta is about to reveal her secrets, which she diligently 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 learn about unusual dishes that all vacationers need to taste. Amazing delicacies that surprise even gourmets are offered in any bar or restaurant. Visitors praise delicious pizza, salads, cakes with various fillings, salsiccia (sausage cooked in wine and spices). The average check for two is approximately 50 euros. In addition, tourists recommend visiting wine restaurants famous for the true Italian atmosphere and tasting the famous sparkling drinks.
With its convenient location, wonderful climate and cultural traditions, the resort is recognized as one of the best in the world, and no one regrets the time spent here.
