Cloister of Paradise - Summer vibes
1 / 10

Cloister of Paradise

4.5
·219 reviews·Amalfi, Italy

A 13th-century Moorish-style cloister in Amalfi, featuring a serene garden, 120 carved columns, and religious frescoes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning or Late Afternoon

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Cloister of Paradise - Summer vibes

Cloister of Paradise

Best Time

Morning or Late Afternoon

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 13th-century Moorish-style cloister in Amalfi, featuring a serene garden, 120 carved columns, and religious frescoes.

4.5
(219 reviews)

"A sanctuary of the soul, transcending mere architectural marvel to become a place of tranquil beauty."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Combined Ticket Value

Get a single ticket for the Cathedral, Cloister, and Museum to save time and money.

🤫 Respect the Quiet

This is a sanctuary; keep voices low and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Central Garden

The Central Garden

Courtyard

A lush oasis with citrus trees, roses, and vibrant bougainvillea, offering a peaceful escape.

Intricate Columns & Capitals

Intricate Columns & Capitals

Cloister Walkways

Marvel at the 120 slender columns, each topped with unique foliage and geometric carvings.

Frescoes and Archways

Frescoes and Archways

Vaulted Ceilings

Gaze up at celestial frescoes adorning the vaulted ceilings, telling stories of saints and miracles.

Fountain of Serenity

Fountain of Serenity

Garden Center

Listen to the soothing murmur of the crystal-clear fountain, a perfect spot for quiet reflection.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting early in the morning or late afternoon. Weekends and midday can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider purchasing a combined ticket for the Cathedral, Cloister, and Museum to save time and money.

Embrace the Tranquility

This is a place for quiet contemplation. While social media showcases its beauty, remember to respect the serene atmosphere. Allow ample time to wander through the gardens and admire the intricate details of the architecture.

Best Times

When
Morning or Late Afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Midday
Why
Escape weekend rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

the MET cloisters is always at the top of my rec list for anyone visiting nyc #medievalhistory #medievaltiktok #themet #nycmuseum #explorenyc #nyclife #nycthingstodo #museumtok #newyorkcity #museum
@littlebigworld.em
172.1K likes • 838.7K views

🎟️ Combined Ticket Value

Get a single ticket for the Cathedral, Cloister, and Museum to save time and money. Reddit

🤫 Respect the Quiet

This is a sanctuary; keep voices low and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

I would have been an Italian Renaissance 10 with all this finery in my hair 👑 @Epona Valley #medievaltiktok #metcloisters #renaissance #hairtutorial
@queen_astraea
101.7K likes • 599.4K views
Love doing these reviews #seaisland #cloister #georgia #saintsimons
@zophieelizabeth
94.9K likes • 631.4K views

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Wonder

Allow at least an hour to fully appreciate the details and tranquility. Reddit

📸 Capture the Beauty

The light is magical in the morning and late afternoon for photos. TikTok

This hidden gem in Georgia is quite literally the most stunning place I’ve ever been- we stayed at The Cloister and I could not recommend it enough! There were kids and families everywhere and I’d love to go back with the kids one day 🥹🐚🦀 #travelvlog #seaisland #thecloister #thecloisterseaisland #seaislandgeorgia @ARMRA @Old Navy Official @llbean @IT Cosmetics @Hourglass Cosmetics @Fenty Beauty @...
@chloewbenton
70.4K likes • 869.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Combined Ticket Value

Get a single ticket for the Cathedral, Cloister, and Museum to save time and money. Reddit

🤫 Respect the Quiet

This is a sanctuary; keep voices low and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Wonder

Allow at least an hour to fully appreciate the details and tranquility. Reddit

📸 Capture the Beauty

The light is magical in the morning and late afternoon for photos. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(219 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Cloister of Paradise as a tranquil sanctuary and a highlight of their Amalfi visit, appreciating its beautiful architecture, serene garden, and spiritual atmosphere. While some note it can get crowded, the overall experience is described as peaceful and awe-inspiring, offering a perfect escape.

"The highlight of the entire cathedral visit. Beautiful chapels with frescos, the perfect white-arch architecture and the green interior amount to the closter being the nicest thing of the entire cathedral tour."

Constantin Jacob

"Cathedral of St. Andrew, Cloister of Paradise, Crypt, and Diocesan Museum all in one place and with one ticket. It wouldn't take you longer than 1hr to explore"

Fadila El Masoudi

"In the heart of Amalfi, a hidden gem of tranquil beauty emerges—the Chiostro del Paradiso, a cloister that transcends mere architectural marvel to become a sanctuary of the soul. As we enter this sacred oasis, let us explore its intricate details, where the technical and the poetic converge in a harmonious dance.

Design and Layout:
The Chiostro del Paradiso is a cloister of graceful proportion, an architectural symphony of symmetry and serenity. It follows the classic form of a quadrilateral, with a central courtyard graced by a lush garden. Cloister walkways, supported by slender columns, envelop the garden like loving arms, offering both shelter and an open embrace to visitors.

Columns and Capitals:
The cloister's columns are carved from the same local limestone that characterizes Amalfi's architecture. Each column rises with a slender grace, their capitals adorned with intricate foliage and geometric patterns, akin to a choir of voices singing in stone. These capitals, like botanical manuscripts, whisper secrets of the natural world.

Archways and Vaults:
As one walks through the cloister, the archways form a rhythmic procession, guiding the eye and the soul. Above, the vaulted ceilings, adorned with delicate frescoes, are a celestial canvas that tells stories of saints and miracles. The arches and vaults create a sense of harmony and balance, inviting contemplation and reflection.

Garden and Flora:
The central garden is a verdant paradise, a microcosm of the natural world's splendor. Here, citrus trees, fragrant with blossoms, offer shade and a gentle fragrance that lingers in the air. Roses, like the blush of youth, climb trellises, and vibrant bougainvillea spills over the walls, creating a palette of colors that mirror the Mediterranean.

Fountain and Waterscape:
At the heart of the garden, a serene fountain glistens with crystal-clear waters. Its soothing murmur is a backdrop to quiet contemplation, a symphony of liquid notes that dances in the air. The play of sunlight on the water's surface creates a shimmering mosaic of reflections.

Statuary and Sculpture:
Amidst the greenery, sculpted saints and biblical figures stand sentinel. Their faces bear expressions of serenity and grace, their forms a testament to the skill of the craftsmen. These statues seem to come alive in the dappled light, as if they, too, partake in the cloister's timeless reverie.

The Chiostro del Paradiso is more than an architectural wonder; it is a sanctuary of the senses, where the technical and the poetic converge to create a place of serenity and spiritual awakening. It is a testament to the enduring power of design, nature, and the human spirit to create spaces that transcend the ordinary and touch the divine. In its tranquil embrace, we find not just a cloister, but a glimpse of paradise itself—a testament to the harmonious coexistence of art, architecture, and the natural world."

Ugo Terzi (Golfo di Salerno)

What People Like

Tranquil sanctuary
Beautiful architecture
Serene garden

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cloister of Paradise is located in the heart of Amalfi, easily accessible by foot from the main piazza. If arriving by ferry or bus, it's a short walk through the charming streets. Reddit

Parking in Amalfi can be challenging. It's best to use public parking garages like Luna Rossa or use public transport if possible. TikTok

Yes, regular SITA buses connect Amalfi to other towns like Positano and Sorrento. Ferries also offer a scenic route to Amalfi. TikTok

Wander through the narrow streets, visit the Duomo di Sant'Andrea, and enjoy the local atmosphere before heading to the cloister. Reddit

Many guided tours of Amalfi include a visit to the Cloister of Paradise as part of a larger itinerary. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally, but it's generally open daily from morning until early evening. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

There is an admission fee, often included in a combined ticket with the Cathedral and Diocesan Museum. Check current prices online. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking a combined ticket in advance can save time, especially during peak season. Reddit

Typically, a ticket grants access to the Cloister, the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, its crypt, and the Diocesan Museum. Reddit

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Inquire at the ticket office or check the official website. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Most visitors spend about 1 hour exploring the cloister, garden, and surrounding areas. Reddit

Key attractions include the central garden, the 120 intricately carved columns, the vaulted ceilings with frescoes, and the serene fountain. Reddit

Yes, children can enjoy the beautiful garden and the unique architecture. It's a peaceful environment for them to explore. TikTok

Restroom facilities are usually available within the complex, often near the museum or ticket area. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in certain areas, especially near frescoes. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best natural light, creating beautiful shadows and highlighting the architectural details. TikTok

The central garden, the archways framing the courtyard, and the detailed column capitals are particularly picturesque. TikTok

While generally permitted, avoid using flash, especially near frescoes, and be respectful of other visitors' experience. TikTok

A smartphone with good low-light capabilities or a DSLR camera with a wide-angle lens will work well to capture the architecture and garden. TikTok

Try capturing reflections in the fountain, framing shots through the archways, or focusing on the intricate details of the capitals. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cloister of Paradise offers a surprisingly engaging experience for families. The central garden is a delightful space for children to explore, with its fragrant trees and colorful flowers. It's a peaceful environment where kids can run around a bit without disturbing the tranquility of the site. The unique architecture and the stories behind the frescoes can spark their imagination, making history feel more tangible. TikTok

Consider purchasing the combined ticket which includes the Cathedral and Museum, as these can offer further points of interest for curious young minds. The relatively short visit time (around an hour) is also ideal for keeping children entertained. Remember to bring water and snacks, and encourage them to appreciate the quiet beauty of this historical gem. TikTok

🧘 Solo Travelers & Contemplatives

For solo travelers seeking a moment of peace, the Cloister of Paradise is an absolute must-visit. Its serene atmosphere, lush garden, and the gentle sound of the fountain create the perfect setting for quiet reflection and meditation. You can easily spend an hour or more simply wandering the walkways, admiring the intricate details of the columns, and soaking in the spiritual ambiance. Reddit

It's a place where you can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with yourself. The historical significance and the sheer beauty of the architecture provide ample inspiration. Don't rush your visit; allow yourself to be fully present in this tranquil sanctuary. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvels of the Cloister

The Cloister of Paradise (Chiostro del Paradiso) in Amalfi is a breathtaking example of Moorish-influenced architecture, dating back to the 13th century. Its design is a harmonious blend of geometric precision and organic beauty. The cloister follows a classic quadrilateral layout, enclosing a serene central courtyard. This courtyard is not just a visual centerpiece but also a vibrant ecosystem, featuring fragrant citrus trees, blooming roses, and colorful bougainvillea that spill over the ancient walls. The air is often perfumed with the scent of blossoms, creating an immersive sensory experience. Reddit

The most striking feature is the 120 slender columns that support the graceful archways of the cloister walkways. Each column is unique, topped with intricately carved capitals that depict a variety of motifs, from delicate foliage and geometric patterns to more symbolic representations. These capitals are like stone manuscripts, whispering tales of nature and artistry. Walking along the shaded walkways, visitors are enveloped by a sense of peace and timelessness, with the gentle murmur of the central fountain providing a soothing soundtrack. Reddit

Above, the vaulted ceilings are adorned with delicate frescoes that add a celestial dimension to the space. These painted narratives of saints and miracles draw the eye upward, inviting contemplation and spiritual reflection. The interplay of light and shadow across the arches and frescoes creates a dynamic visual experience throughout the day. The Cloister of Paradise is more than just a historical site; it's a sanctuary where art, architecture, and nature converge to create a truly divine atmosphere. Reddit

A Sanctuary of History and Spirituality

The Cloister of Paradise is intrinsically linked to the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, a significant religious site in Amalfi. It is believed that the remains of Saint Andrew, one of Jesus's first disciples, are interred within the cathedral's crypt, adding a profound layer of spiritual importance to the entire complex. The original church itself boasts impressive bronze doors cast in Constantinople, offering a tangible connection to centuries of history and faith. Reddit

Visiting the Cloister also provides access to the Diocesan Museum, which houses a collection of religious artifacts, artworks, and historical documents that further illuminate the region's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. This museum offers a deeper understanding of the art and devotion that have shaped Amalfi over the centuries. The combined ticket allows for a comprehensive exploration of these interconnected sites, offering a holistic experience of Amalfi's historical and religious significance. Reddit

Many visitors describe the Cloister as a highlight of their cathedral visit, noting its tranquil beauty and the perfect harmony of its architecture and greenery. It's a place where one can feel a sense of connection to the past and find a moment of profound peace amidst the bustling town. The experience is often described as transcending mere architectural marvel to become a sanctuary for the soul. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2