Amalfi, Italy

Capital City

With a population of just 4,729, Amalfi is a quaint but isolated seaside town, far removed from the frenetic pace of modern life. While the medieval architecture and dramatic cliffs make for a picturesque setting, the area's history as a maritime power has left a lingering bureaucratic headache. Amalfi was once an independent republic, but its decline in the 12th century saw it fall under Norman and Pisan rule, leading to the erosion of its former civic rights. Today, the town's once-thriving port has been reduced to a mere shadow of its former self, serving as little more than a tourist hub. Those seeking an escape from the stresses of the modern world may find solace in Amalfi's tranquil pace of life, but the persistent red tape and limited economic opportunities make it better suited for retirees and the independently wealthy than ambitious go-getters.