General Aspects: The town lies at the centre of the Gulf, at the mouth of the Irno River valley, not far from Piana del Sele. Robert Guiscard, the Norman ruler, conquered Salerno in 1077, making it the capital of his dominions; the foundation of the famous Scuola Medica Salernitana (school of medicine) enhanced its importance. Under the Swabian rulers, it declined with the growing importance of Naples. Salerno's economy, facilitated by the lines of communication, was based on the marketing of agricultural products and on maritime activities.
(J. K., J. Q. & N. F.)
