Why is it called Positano?

The name 'Positano' originates from an ancient legend. Long ago, on the shores of Italy, a Turkish boat had become beached and the crew didn't know what to do. On board the ship was a painting of the Virgin Mary that whispered to the captain “posa”, meaning 'set me down'.



The name "Positano" is steeped in a beautiful local legend that captures the spirit of the Amalfi Coast. According to the myth, a ship carrying a Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary became becalmed in the waters off the coast. The sailors allegedly heard a mysterious voice whispering "Posa, posa!" (which translates to "Put it down, put it down!"). Taking this as a divine command, the captain pulled the ship into the harbor and left the painting there, around which the town eventually grew. More historically-minded etymologists in 2026 suggest the name may actually derive from the Roman family name "Posidius" or perhaps a connection to Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea, reflecting the town's ancient maritime roots. Regardless of its literal origin, the "Posa, posa" legend remains the heart of the town’s identity, celebrated every year during the Feast of the Assumption.

People Also Ask

Positano is the most popular town on the Amalfi Coast in Italy, known all over the world for the moda positano, the vibrant nightlife and the characteristic shops. If you are looking for colorful clothes or typical Italian sandals, you can't miss the shopping in Positano.

MORE DETAILS

In ancient times, a Turkish boat became beached just off the shores of what has since come to be known as Positano. Aboard the ship was a painting of the Virgin Mary. Legend has it that the captain heard the painting whisper posa, posa ('set me down, set me down') and he obediently threw the image into the sea.

MORE DETAILS

Positano is a fishing village along Italy's Amalfi Coast. It's about 170 miles south of Rome. It's nicknamed the vertical city and is famous for the colorful buildings stacked high into the steep mountainsides.

MORE DETAILS

Positano was a relatively poor fishing village during the first half of the twentieth century. It began to attract large number of tourists in the 1950s, especially after John Steinbeck published his essay about Positano in Harper's Bazaar in May, 1953: Positano bites deep, Steinbeck wrote.

MORE DETAILS

Interesting Facts about Positano Positano is a village in the Campania region of Italy. With its colorful buildings, multiple beaches, luxury villas and resorts, and rooftop bars and restaurants, Positano is one of the most popular towns to visit on the Amalfi Coast.

MORE DETAILS

The views are breathtaking Whether you're gazing across the pastel-fronted town from a hilltop terrace or lazing on the lounger-dotted beach, Positano has some of the most recognisable and stunning views on the Amalfi Coast.

MORE DETAILS

One of the lesser-known beaches of Positano is Laurito. Many take the shuttle boat to have lunch in the famous restaurant of Da Adolfo, but fewer people know that you can easily reach the beach from the mainland, as long as you're not afraid of some steps.

MORE DETAILS

The main road that runs along the Amalfi Coast (Amalfi Drive, also called SS163) cuts across the top of Positano. The only road through Positano runs in a one-way direction down the west hillside (called Viale Pasitea) and then back up the east hillside (the name changes to Via Cristoforo Colombo).

MORE DETAILS

On average, hotels in Positano are expensive compared to other places you'd visit in Italy for 2 reasons: The inventory in Positano is limited. There aren't that many places to stay, especially budget-friendly options. The demand to stay in Positano is high!

MORE DETAILS

Positano is more peaceful and relaxed, with a more laid-back atmosphere. Sorrento is also generally considered to be a bit more family-friendly, while Positano is more romantic and is a popular spot for honeymooners and couples. In terms of activities, both Sorrento and Positano offer a variety of options for visitors.

MORE DETAILS

Known as Amalfi Lemons, lemons have become an iconic symbol in the Amalfi Coast. You think of the Amalfi Coast, I could nine times out of ten predict that you would think of lemons. These specific lemons are distinct for their ginormous size, sweet flavour and powerful citrus aroma.

MORE DETAILS

Today, Villa Astor sets the benchmark for luxury accommodation on Amalfi Coast and has been named as a dream vacation home by many luxury lifestyle and travel publications such as Town & Country, Quintessence, Forbes, Bloomberg and the Telegraph.

MORE DETAILS

It's touristy but worth it. Perched on a green, rocky cliff between Amalfi and Sorrento, Positano is one of the most eye-catching corners of the Amalfi Coast. But you need to know how to avoid tourist traps (and Positano is full of those!). Fashionable and classy, Positano is a high-end destination.

MORE DETAILS

Positano is a very walkable city; however, you need to navigate stairs and steep hills to get around. The city is small enough that you can explore it on foot, but you'll need to walk through narrow streets and winding staircases to reach the center of town and the beach.

MORE DETAILS

If you're seeking a glamorous, high-end experience, Capri may be the destination for you. If you're looking for a more relaxed, romantic atmosphere, Positano might be the better option.

MORE DETAILS