Ischia...an island rich in history, culture, traditions and landscapes. Ischia, together with the Isle of Capri and Procida is part of the Napoli's Gulf and the one with the greatest territorial extension and population.
The Island of Ischia is of volcanic origin. Its composition has taken place because of continuous volcanic eruptions in the course of 150,000 years and the oldest parts are still clearly visible and located mostly on the southern coast. The territory covers a surface of 46 km2 and its coastline is about 34 km long where you find beautiful beaches.
The highest point of the island is Monte Epomeo 787 meters high and located right in the middle of the area. From its top you can have a 360-degree panorama that surrounds it.
The territory is divided into 6 municipalities of the island: Ischia, Casamicciola, Forio, Barano,Serrara Fontana,Lacco Ameno and they are all well connected.
Climate
Its location, right in the middle of the Tyrrhenian Sea, makes the Ischia climate mostly mild ... typically Mediterranean.
The winter is humid and rainy mainly due to the presence of winds as a south-westerly and scirocco, while the seasons of spring and summer are characterized by a warm humid climate with low rainfall and with peaks of 38C °, ideal climate for spending summer holidays.
History
The history of the Island is a fascinating and ancient history.
The first archaeological finds date back to Neolithic times, mainly in the south-west. About two decades after the supposed landing on the island's coasts, most of the island territories was colonized, especially the northern area, becoming one of the largest marketing points of iron.
An important finding of this time is the famous Nestor's Cup dating back to 725 BC it is the oldest written in Greek poetry now kept at the Archaeological Museum of Pithecusae Lacco Ameno (Villa Arbusto). In 474 BC Hiero I of Syracuse took the island by building a fortress on a small islet a few yards away from the mainland ... the same who later became the Aragonese Castle.
Over the years the island suffered numerous invasions Heruli, Ostrogoths, Saracens in the '813 and '847: and still later by the Normans in 1135 with Roger the Norman in 1214 and the Sveva dynasty.
Charles I of Angiò, after foiled the Pisa raids, strengthened the defenses of the Aragonese Castle and its hegemony until, in 1282, the islanders expelled the House of Anjou. They spent only a few years and the power was back to Charles I of Angiò.
After several successions, arrives on Ischia territory in 1423, Alfonso V of Aragon occupying the Aragonese Castle and in 1443 finally succeeded in his aim ... to occupy Naples. The government of Ischia passed into the hands of Lucrezia d'Alagno that delegated the power to brother John Torella. On the death of Torella succeeded to power in 1458 Ferdinand I.
Another important figure in the history of the island is Ferdinand II, that with the arrival of Charles VIII, settled in the Aragonese Castle, then leaving it in control of Innico Avalos.
Over the years, many barbarian invasions that affected the island went slowly to decrease (Rais Dragut, Barbaross). The isolated population began to move to the mainland by the Aragonese castle thus starting to give rise to the first settlements in the present village of Ischia Ponte, then called Borgo of Celsa.
A jump in time takes us to 1792, where the last component of the dynasty of d'Avalos, ceded control of the island by appointing an administrator to the Bourbons who ruled the real island life. In July 1833, a disastrous event literally shook the island: the island of Ischia was hit by a violent earthquake which affected mainly the areas of Casamicciola and Lacco Ameno and causing enormous damage and thousands of deaths.
The recent history of Ischia mainly concerns the fabulous 50's... the "golden years" with the prestigious figure of Angelo Rizzoli that brought a new face and a wave of fame in the Island. Ischia became a set of many successful films, new accommodations were born and the island became one of the most popular destinations of the moment.
Even today the island of Ischia is one of the most popular destinations of tourist demand welcoming well over 8 million visitors annually.
Places to visit
THE CASTLE ARAGONESE
One of the Most Significant symbols of the island of Ischia is the Aragonese Castle.
This impressive fortress was born on a small rocky islet, a real pile of magma that during the eruptive activity has-been consolidated by giving its present form. The castle is situated on the eastern side and is connected to the mainland by a bridge built over 220 meters long masonry, born initially as elevator bridge. Before the construction of the bridge, the only way of reaching the islet was the sea. Access to the castle is possible through a tunnel or mules, commissioned by Alfonso I of Aragon. A route that we recommend to do to see and experience the endless charm of this place. The first section is characterized by high and illuminated skylights that were used as a weapon againstenemies, beating them through hot oil and stones. The upper path is displayed in the open air and start from there other little paths which lead to small gardens and buildings. For the lazy, however, you can take a lift, built in the mid-70s, which effectively reaches 60 meters above sea level, also entirely manufactured in the rock.
The present appearance of the Aragon Castle, called Castrum Gironis, is due to Angevins: a fortress in the shape of a square enclosed by high walls with 4 towers at the corners, giving protection and refuge to the people during the many invasions.
The surface is covered only for a fraction by buildings, the second part is composed of land, vineyards, gardens and ruins.
TOWER OF MICHELANGELO
The Tower of Michelangelo Is also called Tower of Guevara. These two definitions derived from two different theories: the building was built in the late 400 and became the home of Francis Duke of Bovino de Guevara, from which it derivates its name, while the second definition comes from a particular episode: it is assumed that the famous artist Michelangelo duing his stay he had an affair with the famous Victory Column...they wrote love letters (even if this thesis remains to be proven).
The building is located on the east coast and is one of the most scenic areas of Ischia ... Cartaromana Bay, in front of you can admire the rocks of Sant'Anna and the Aragonese Castle.
The tower stands on three floors and is surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation. The landscape is gorgeous.
Today the building is home to many cultural events, events, performances and art exhibitions.
SOCCORSO CHURCH (FORIO)
In the town of Forio, you can visit one of the most unique and interesting churches of the whole island: the Church of Soccorso. It was founded on a promontory overlooking the sea and located on a large square. The church, together with the Tower is the symbol of Forio, it was founded as an Augustinian monastery in 1315, but the actual figure is from recent date that is 1864.
The peculiarities of this building are numerous, starting from its entry consisting in 20 steps in "piperno" which lead in frnt of the unique façade made of white and rich frescoes and tiles of 700.
Inside you recognize many artistic influences - such as Moorish architecture, Mediterranean, Greek and Byzantine consisting of a central vessel and different side chapels. One of the beauties to visit inside is a crucifix that dates back to the sixteenth century, of Catalan origin.
BASILICA AND EXCAVATIONS OF SAINT RESTITUTA (LACCO AMENO)
The entire complex is situated in the heart of the City of Lacco Ameno and is absolutely a place to visit. The origins date back to 2.000 years ago, an assertion proved by archaeological finds under the current structure. These finds date from the mid 50s and were, as happens often, purely random. In fact, during the restoration of the chapel, a crypt was discovered and subsequently many early Christian tombs. Excavations and finds continued bringing to light extraordinary historical artifacts such as fossils, Neolithic items, pottery and many other finds dating from different historical periods. With the advance of the excavation re-emerged a Christian cemetery that was built around a small church made out of a cistern dating back to Roman times.
During the excavations an industrial zone was also discovered where they created pottery vessels that were then sold around the Mediterranean.
The present church was the result of Numerous reconstructions. Inside the building you will find many paintings of the fifteenth century, in addition to the ten large paintings of the martyrdom of Santa Restituta. The church is rectangular with a single nave, while the side is lined with latter those who were initially small chapels. The facade of the Basilica of Santa Restituta is typical neo-classical style, flanked by the bell tower and the tower now that serves as home to city offices.
VILLA ARBUSTO
The Archeological Museum at Villa Arbusto Pithecusae opened in 1999. Within this magnificent complex you can find more than three thousand artefacts from different historical periods, like Nestore Cup. The museum is open every day except Monday.
MUSEUM OF THE SEA
The Maritime Museum is located inside the Clock Tower in Ischia Ponte. The exhibition is spread over all three floors of the structure relates to the traditions, history, customs, passions that's the island population lived and still lives with the sea.
The sea has always been a primary element in the lives of Ischia. Inside you can find ancient artifacts restored, tools, stories and pictures.
Thermae
ISCHIA AND SPA
Ischia, in addition to being called the green island is known as the "Island of Beauty"! The explanation is simple ... a lot of its thermal springs are known throughout the world. The island has volcanic origins so its waters are rich in beneficial elements such as potassium, chlorine, sodium, trace elements, sulfates and much more making it a true blessing for body and soul.
Since ancient times the Greeks and later the Romans, used the healing properties of these sources to regenerate...references to the importance of the baths of Ischia can be find in Illiade of Homer and Virgil's Aeneid.
The area includes 69 groups "fumarole" and 29 groups of hot springs.
-Nitrodi spring: This spring is located in the fraction of Buonopane, in the town of Barano. Its waters are used both for external use (healing, promotes the healing of wounds, fistulas, and varicose veins, helps fight acne and improves the look of your skin, making it pure, smooth and light) and to facilitate the internal functions(assisting gastroduodenal ulcers, promotes diuresis, anti-uric properties and much more).
- Sorgente Bay: This is located in the beautiful bay of Panza, and is an open-air spa park. Plunging into the sea there are several natural pools, where hot water gushes out direct rays from the bowels of the earth. In some places the water is so hot that you can even cook eggs and chickens! The presence of these thermal baths and steam benefits makes this place is always accessible in the winter months.
-Fumaroles: the volcanic fumaroles type events are manifesting through jets of steam escaping from the ground with temperatures ranging from 30 ° C to 100 ° C.
-Olmitello: This source is located at the end of the source Nitrodi, it can be seen as its extension. The waters of this source, unlike Nitrodi are much richer in minerals and have a strong healing power, particularly to promote diuresis.
Many are also in Ischia Thermal parks where you can spend a day relaxing in the spa. The parks on the island are:
-Castiglione Thermal Park (Casamicciola Terme)
-Negombo Thermal Park (Lacco Ameno)
Poseidon-Thermal Park and Gardens (Forio)
Garden-Spa Aphrodite-Apollon (Serrara Fontana)
Source of Nitrodi-Nymphs (Barano
Beaches
The coasts of the Island give visitors the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful beaches.
MARONTI BEACH: This beach is the largest of the island: it is about 3 km long and reaches to the beautiful village of Sant 'Angelo. The Maronti is located on the southern coast of the island, and the depths are deep and crystal clear. The name of this beach comes from the Latin "quatior" which means "quiet beach".
CITARA BEACH: Citara beach is located in the town of Forio and is the largest beach of the town. It's located on the slopes of Mount Epomeo and the scenery is truly spectacular. Its name means "that which is fruitful." Its sand is white and thin, its bottom is transparent and crystal clear for all kinds of water sports. Its location makes the whole area sunny until late, because the sun sets right there ...
SAN FRANCESCO BEACH: the beach of Saint Francesco is located in the northern town of Forio and is set in one of the most scenic areas of the island, being just below the coast of Punta Caruso adorned by lush vegetation. The fine, golden sand gives rise to a sandy bottom with crystal clear water.
CAVA DELL'ISOLA BEACH: the beach of the young people! Stuck in one of the wildest and most luxuriant island coves. This beach is a paradise for those who want to spend a day of freedom and of the sun until late evening hours. It's a beach completely clear of private establishments where you can engage in any sport.
SPIAGGIA DEI PESCATORI BEACH: a long time ago this was the meeting place of the fishermen and inhabitants of the ancient village of Ischia Ponte ... but the traditions continue today. In fact you can still see the small fishing boats and houses, still in use, facing the sea. The scenery is beautiful, from here you can admire the entire Gulf of Naples and almost touch the Aragonese Castle! Good for families.
LIDO DI ISCHIA: this beach stretching from the Port of Ischia to the Fisherman's Beach. Its strategic position allows to reach in a few minutes walk the center of Ischia. The beach consists of fine white sand.
Ischia by night and Patronal Feasts
ISCHIA BY NIGHT
Ischia is an island to live by day and love by night….
Ischian nights are unforgettable. Everywhere there is a host of occasions for entertainment and for romantic moonlit evenings. In the commune of Ischia the place of choice in the evening is the right hand shore of the port with its many restaurants, inns, taverns and disco bars. One is spoiled for choice regarding how to spend the evening at Ischia Porto – one could maybe start off with a good dinner and end up dancing on a bollard…Yet before arriving for dinner there is the not to be missed appointment for an aperitif which is always enjoyed in the open; in the commune of Ischia, the most frequented places for starting off the evening are located on Corso Vittoira Colonna and in Via Roma (the principal Ischia shopping streets) near Piazzetta san Girolamo. In this same area we can find late night spots for dancing and singing till dawn. Among the other communes on the island as far as entertainment is concerned, the main places are certainly Forio and Sant’Angelo. In Forio the old centre and the port are packed with pizzerias and characteristic restaurants, and also with trendy night spots. Sant’Angelo is famous for the elegance of its night life, the refined bars in the little squares, its ultra chic taverns. Numerous musical events will cheer your holiday on Ischia: concerts of jazz music, rock, gospel, pop folk and classical music are organized everywhere in the churches of Ischia and Forio, at Villa Arbusto, at Sant’Angelo, at the La Mortella gardens in Forio, at Ischia Ponte, at the Aragonese Castle, in the pinewoods and in the Arena at the Negombo park in Lacco Ameno, which every year presents a rich bill of musicians and also of actors and international cabaret artists.
PATRONAL FEASTS
Ischia traditions, culture, Folklore and religion are mixed giving to visitors of the island striking manifestations. The most important are:
SAN VITO: it celebrates the patron saint of Forio from 14 to 17 July of each year.
FEAST OF SAINT ANNE : This is one of the most striking events of the year. The festival falls on July 26 of each year and in this occasion there is the traditional parade of boats on the sea. Each municipality of the island, and not, build these boats with scenery and dozens bit players. After awarding the first prize boat there's the "fire" (a fake one obviously!) of the Aragonese Castle and the spectacle of fireworks.
SAINT JOHN JOSEPH OF THE CROSS : the patron saint of the town of Ischia is celebrated in the village of Ischia Ponte September 4 to 8.
FEAST OF SAINT-RESTITUTA: is the Patron Saint of the City of Lacco Ameno. The celebration of the Saint takes place May 16 to 18.
How to reach Ischia
The Ports of Embarkation from Naples to the Island of Ischia are:
FERRIES: Port of Naples "Calata Porta di Massa" and the port of Pozzuoli (exit number 12 Via Campana)
HYDROFOILS: Beverello - Naples Mergellina
To reach Naples by train railway stations are:
-Napoli Centrale (Piazza Garibaldi)
-Mergellina
-Campi Flegrei
To reach Naples by plane, the airport is Capodichino.
From the port of Naples (Beverello) and from Capodichino there is a public bus service with regular buses every 30 minutes (Alibus).
BY CAR: From Rome (A1) - From BARI (A16) - From SALERNO (A30)
