The Ancient Arsenals of the Republic of Amalfi was the place where warships were built and repaired during the period of the Maritime Republic of Amalfi. Built in 1059, it was originally known by the Arabic name "àrsena" or "arsìna." Later, in the 13th century, it was called "tarsienàtus," and then "tarsinàle" during the Renaissance.
It stood on a base of lime constructed over layers of sand and tuff originating from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Initially larger than it is today, over time it suffered damage from storms and structural alterations. The worst storm occurred in 1343 and was described by the poet Francesco Petrarca.
After the end of the Republic of Amalfi, the Arsenal lost its original function, even being used as a garage for buses. Only in 1934 was it restored and reopened to the public to share its history. Thanks to subsequent restoration works, today the Arsenal has returned to its ancient splendor, allowing visitors to discover an important piece of Amalfi's history.
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