House of Cornelia Tasso, Sorrento

The House of Cornelia Tasso in Sorrento offers a unique glimpse into the Renaissance era and the life of one of its most eminent literary figures. Situated in the historic core of Sorrento, this ancient dwelling, sometimes referred to as the Sersale house, was once the abode of Cornelia, the sister of the celebrated poet Torquato Tasso.

Cornelia married Marzio Sersale in 1558 and continued to reside in this house with her sons, Antonino and Alessandro, even after becoming a widow. The residence is distinguishable by its charming balcony adorned with decorative stonework, a feature that marks its historical significance.

Torquato Tasso, born in Sorrento in 1544, is renowned for his epic poem "Gerusalemme Liberata" ("Jerusalem Delivered"), a creative rendition of the Christian-Muslim conflicts during the first Crusade's siege of Jerusalem. Tasso emerged as the preeminent Italian poet of the Renaissance, captivating readers across Europe until the 19th century. His literary achievements inspired subsequent luminaries, including Spencer and Byron.

Despite his nomadic lifestyle, Tasso harbored a strong bond with his sister, Cornelia. Returning to Sorrento amid growing paranoia and persecution fears, he sought refuge in a Franciscan convent, then tested Cornelia's loyalty by posing as a peasant reporting his death. Despite brief solace in Sorrento, he yearned for the familiar Ferrara court and eventually returned, only to be later confined to a madhouse due to erratic behavior. Despite regaining freedom, his health declined, leading to his death in Rome at 51 in April 1595.

The House of Cornelia Tasso stands as a tribute to the Tasso family's legacy and Torquato Tasso's lasting influence on European literature, reflecting his intricate personal history.