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.