The first burgh he meets is the charming burgh of Erchie (9 km from the city of Maiori). Erchie, a small marine village with a population of about 100, is frequented by the many tourists who seek the first enchantments of the coast in this minuscule village.
Founded in the fourth century BC as a Greek colony, tradition dictates that Hercules was the first to set foot on this small piece of land.
In the tenth century, the small village obtained the right to collect one tenth of the fishing catch of the entire zone (Ius Piscariae) because it was the seat of the Benedictine Abbey of S. Maria of Irchi. The Abbey was subsequently destroyed in 1440 by a violent storm. The small church of S. Maria Assunta, at the entrance to the city, was built on the ruins of the ancient Abbey of S. Maria of Irchi. It is built in renaissance style with 3 naves divided by white columns and by flowing archways.
Erchie boasts a large beach and a beautiful tower (privately owned). The tower was commissioned by Carlo I d'Angiņ in 1278. It is positioned on the eastern side of the coast; on the opposite side a narrow natural passage leads to a small beach.
The narrow streets of this tiny burgh, the white houses, ancient tower, and crystalline sea make Erchie the ideal destination for a tourist excursion.
There are no hotels, but is possible to stay in privates homes.
For further information: e-mail the Comune di Maiori (Maiori City Hall) Comune di Maiori
