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ISCHIA
Ischia,
known as the Green island, is another volcanic
island that forms the extreme point of the Campi
Flegrei.
Much bigger than the other islands (Capri,
Procida), it hosts also
an old dead volcano and dozen of still active thermal springs.
In fact, one of its best attractions are these thermal
baths and beauty treatments offered in comfortable
and attractive resorts by the sea.
But Ischia, or better Pythecusa was also
the first colony of Magna Grecia (VIII cent.)
and it has a small but rich museum dedicated to the findings
of the old greek colony. The highlight is for sure the Nestore’s
bowl.
Greeks coming from Eubea settled in the area of Mount Vico
building the acropolis, temples and walls. In 322
b.C. Romans conquered Ischia (and Naples)
and Ottaviano Augusto gave it to Naples
in exchange for Capri for
which he completly fell in love.
The island was then invaded by the Heruli then by the Ostrogoths
(V cent. a.D.) before being annexed to the Western Roman Empire
by Byzantins. Saracens arrived
and destroyed everything in 813 and 847. Ischia known then
the dominion of Normans, Svevians,
Angioins and Borbons following the
story of Naples.
Interesting cultural tours are possible in the several municipalities
of the island: the Aragonese Castle, built
in 474 b.C. on a rock near the island by
Hiero I of Syracuse, is the witness of Ischia's history. Not
to be lost a visit to the beautiful La Mortella Gardens
with tropical and Mediterranean plants and to the Villa
La Colombaia.
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