Salerno (Italy)

Salerno is a Mediterranean port city in Campania (southwestern Italy), located on Salerno Gulf (Tyrrhenian Sea) and with population around 135,000. Port Salerno (locode ITSAL) is one of the most active seaports in Tyrrhenian Sea. The port handles nearly 10 million cargo tons annually, with 60% of this shipping volume is containerized (transported by container ships) cargo.

The city's current economy is based mainly on services and tourism. Most of the manufacturing industry didn't survive the 1970's crisis. The remaining industries are mainly pottery, food production and treatment.

In the early Middle Ages, the town was an independent Lombard principality and had the world's first medical school. During the 16th century, under the Sanseverino family rule, the town became a centre of learning, culture and arts as this wealthy family hired some of the greatest intellectuals. In 1694, Salerno was struck by catastrophic earthquakes and plagues. Until the 18th century, following a period of Spanish rule, the town became part of the Parthenopean Republic.

The city hosted the Italian King, who in 1943 moved from Rome after Italy negotiated peace with the Allies in WW2 (1939-45). A brief "government of the South" was established in Salerno, which became Italy's "capital" for several months. Some Allied landings during the invasion of Italy (Operation Avalanche) occurred close to the city.

Today, Salerno is a major cultural centre in Campania, with an eventful history and varied culture. The city is divided into 3 distinct zones: medieval, 19th century and the more densely populated post-war area. Among Salerno's many tourist attractions are Lungomare Trieste (Trieste Seafront Promenade), Castello di Arechi (Arechis' Castle), Duomo (cathedral), Museo Didattico della Scuola Medica Salernitana (Salernitan Medical School Museum).