Via dei Mercanti (Merchants' Street), Salerno

The Merchants' Street in Salerno has traversed the historic heart of the city, serving as its principal nexus for communication and commerce since the medieval era. Dating back to the year one thousand, the street was originally named Drapparia, owing to the proliferation of "drappi" or fabric shops associated with the Lombard principality of Salerno.

This medieval thoroughfare boasts an average width of approximately 5 meters, occasionally tapering to a mere three meters. Spanning a length of about one kilometer, it extends from the renowned Arch of Arechi, once part of the Lombard palace of the same name, to the bustling Portanova Square, marking the onset of modern Salerno. Throughout Lombard times and beyond, the Merchants' Street has remained the epicenter of the city's mercantile and commercial activities.

Graced by the presence of notable churches, including the Santissimo Crocifisso, San Gregorio, and San Giorgio, the street is adorned with significant landmarks such as Pinto Palace, housing the provincial art gallery, and Carrara Palace. Midway along the thoroughfare, the ancient Duomo Street branches off, leading to the revered Salerno Cathedral just a short distance away.