Chiostro del Paradiso

The Chiostro del Paradiso is a mid-thirteenth-century cloister in Amalfi, within the complex of Amalfi Cathedral. It began as a burial ground for Amalfi’s noble families. Slender white marble columns support pointed arches, creating covered walkways around a central garden. Arab and Norman influences shape its medieval design. Intricate arch details accompany frescoes depicting biblical scenes and floral motifs, although some colours have faded. The central garden contains Mediterranean plants and greenery.

The cloister also provides access to the Basilica of the Crucifix, the oldest section of the cathedral complex. That basilica preserves religious artworks and historical artefacts. From selected points, the cloister reveals surrounding hills and parts of the Amalfi coastline beyond its arcades. Local art exhibitions sometimes occupy its historic spaces. Amalfi Cathedral, also called the Duomo di Amalfi, is dedicated to Saint Andrew and forms the wider complex. The wider coast has terraced hillsides, limoncello, and handmade bambagina paper. The cloister brings architecture, frescoes, garden design, and religious history together within Amalfi’s cathedral complex.