Sorrento - Basilica Sant'Antonino

In the mythology, Sorrento was founded by Liparus, grandson of Ulysses and Circe. It was actually founded in the 7th century BC by the Phoenicians. It was influenced by the Greeks, who had a great sanctuary here originally devoted to the cult of the Sirens, hence Sorrento's name.

After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, it was ruled by the Ostrogoths and became part of the Empire of Byzantium.In 1035 the city was acquired by Guaimar IV of Salerno, returned later in Lombard hands before Sorrento in 1137 was conquered by Roger II of Sicily, and annexed to the Kingdom of Sicily.

The construction of the basilica dates back to the 11th century, in the same place where previously stood an oratory in honor of Sant'Antonino, dating back to the 9th century.

In the 17th during the time of the Counter-Reformation important restorations were undertaken, that gave the basilica a strong Baroque character. In 1668 the facade was rebuilt with the bell tower. In 1866, with the abolition of the monasteries, the monks had to leave the church. Important renovation works took place after the earthquake of Irpinia in 1980, while other restoration works were carried out between 2010 and 2011.