1 July-9 Sept 2005. After Florences Maggio Musicale, this is Italys oldest arts festival dating back to 1953 when it was founded as a "Wagner Festival". Since then it has widened its horizons, never losing its special regard for Wagner who spent time and found inspiration in the beautiful gardens of Villa Rufolo where it is held. The stage is perched on the edge of a cliff with the breathtaking Amalfi coastline as its backdrop. The gardens and the villa itself also host recitals and music workshops. The festival is articulated in various sections dedicated to symphonic music, chamber music and even some contemporary, ethnic and jazz.