Ischia Island, off the coast of Naples, has been a resort destination since Roman times due to its thermal waters.
Since then it has played host to film stars, like Liz Taylor and Richard Burton, and films themselves, such as Anthony Minghella's “The Talented Mr Ripley” and “Cleopatra”, starring Taylor.
Located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, this volcanic island is comprised of dramatic rock formations and lush vegetation. Not only is it a visual treat, there is also lots to do on this island.
Find a villa with pool in the Campania region or on Ischia Island and come discover it for yourself.
Since then it has played host to film stars, like Liz Taylor and Richard Burton, and films themselves, such as Anthony Minghella's “The Talented Mr Ripley” and “Cleopatra”, starring Taylor.
Located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, this volcanic island is comprised of dramatic rock formations and lush vegetation. Not only is it a visual treat, there is also lots to do on this island.
Find a villa with pool in the Campania region or on Ischia Island and come discover it for yourself.
Ischia is the largest of the three Phlegraean Islands and though it may not be so well-known as its flashier sister, Capri, it is charming in its own right. It is an entirely different pace of life, metaphorically, if not physically, distant from the hustle-bustle of Naples. The calm relaxation is, however, very far removed from the island's history. First colonised by the Greeks it was variously under the control of the Neapolitans, Syracusans, Romans, Heruli, Ostrogoths, Byzantines, Saracens, Normans, Angevins, House of Aragon, Bourbons, France and England.
Today, those who come to the island tend to be tourists rather than neighbouring rulers wishing to take control of it. However, this past has left a rich tapestry of history and historical monuments behind on the island. One prime example of this is the Aragonese Castle built by Hiero I of Syracuse in 474 BC. As the island, it moved from owner to owner over the years and evolved in different ways because of that.
Located at the port, it is perched high on a volcanic rock and is the most-visited site on the island. It is accessed through a tunnel along which there is a small chapel consecrated to Saint John Joseph of the Cross, the patron saint of the island. Access is also possible via a modern lift for those who are less mobile.
There are also over 70 spas on the island which harness the natural volcanic springs and employ volcanic clay in treatments. This particular aspect of the island is one of the things it is most well-known for and attracts visitors from all over the world, particularly from Europe and Asia.
The gardens of La Mortella were originally owned by English composer William Walton. When he arrived on the island in 1946, his first concern was to create a garden in his new home. Tropical and Mediterranean plants were planted and the gardens include amazing views over Forio. A museum dedicated to the life and work of William Walton has since been built in addition to a recital room where music is performed on a regular basis.
While Ischia Island provides a particular source of tranquillity and relaxation in Campania, it is also somewhere where you'll never be short of something to do.
Located at the port, it is perched high on a volcanic rock and is the most-visited site on the island. It is accessed through a tunnel along which there is a small chapel consecrated to Saint John Joseph of the Cross, the patron saint of the island. Access is also possible via a modern lift for those who are less mobile.
There are also over 70 spas on the island which harness the natural volcanic springs and employ volcanic clay in treatments. This particular aspect of the island is one of the things it is most well-known for and attracts visitors from all over the world, particularly from Europe and Asia.
The gardens of La Mortella were originally owned by English composer William Walton. When he arrived on the island in 1946, his first concern was to create a garden in his new home. Tropical and Mediterranean plants were planted and the gardens include amazing views over Forio. A museum dedicated to the life and work of William Walton has since been built in addition to a recital room where music is performed on a regular basis.
While Ischia Island provides a particular source of tranquillity and relaxation in Campania, it is also somewhere where you'll never be short of something to do.
Photo credits
picture 3: Rolf Cosar / CC BY 2.5
picture 3: Rolf Cosar / CC BY 2.5
