More than 1000 years ago in Italy, there were the so called 'four maritime Republics'. The four republic were represented by Pisa, Genoe, Venice, Amalfi.
Amalfi is the home town of Flavio Gioia who discovered the properties of magnetic field and build the first compass, so in the main square you can see a statue representing the inventor.
Going through two arches you get to the cathedral of Saint Andrea, a masterpiece of Byzantine art. Every 4 years, on 15th August, a Regatta takes place in memory of the 'four Republics'.