Villa Rufolo

Overview

Villa Rufolo is a 13th-century estate in the heart of Ravello, celebrated for its layered gardens cascading toward the sea. Wagner visited in 1880 and declared the gardens to be Klingsor's magic garden from Parsifal.

Highlights

• Terraced gardens: multi-level flowering terraces with panoramic sea views.
• The Moorish Tower: a crenellated tower with Arab-Norman decoration.
• Wagner Stage: an open-air concert platform cantilevered over the cliff.

History

Built by the wealthy Rufolo banking family in the mid-13th century, the villa was restored by the Scottish industrialist Francis Neville Reid in the 1850s.

Visitor Tips

• Combined visit: pair with the Cathedral and a stroll through Ravello.
• Best light: late afternoon offers the warmest light for photos.
• Duration: 45-60 minutes.