Ruts are from wheels of "chariots," meaning carts used to haul things (not necessarily people).
Brinks Chariots delivered coins to the first National Bank of Pompeii...just a guess.
I assumed, Missy, that it was because this Main Street was so heavily traveled. Were the ruts intentionally created? Perhaps as early "gutters," to carry away rain water?
In front of the site of an early Petite Colombe where chariots often stopped
My tour guide was Wendy . . . I'll have to see if I can get a partial refund!
We were on the Amalfi Coast in September and used a private driver. I highly recommend Simply Amalfi http://www.simplyamalfi.com/. Katherine and Salvatore were great to work with. They are both very fun and knowledgeable. If you are ever in Florence, Katherine offers walking tours and tours throughout Tuscany.
I'm sure that a "car and driver" approach to the area would be great. I'll add, however, that when recently there, we drove everywhere, in both directions, from Ravello, our "home base." I found traffic to be very slow . . . so didn't feel, as I was driving, that I missed any sights. And we stopped frequently simply to admire views and take photos. The area is breathtakingly beautiful and ranks up there with SBH in terms of places where we'll eagerly return.
Hear! Hear!. . . a safe way to go, for sure! And, I'll note that while driving & stopping along the way at restaurants and cafes, I consciously abstained from drinking wine! The "driver" option opens more possibilities to your enjoyment of the trip!