The Island of Procida

Procida, a volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, is located at the mouth of the Gulf of Naples, between Ischia and Capo Miseno. It is smaller than its sister islands Ischia and Capri, but boasts a vibrant community of almost 11,000 inhabitants.

Its volcanic origins are beautifully evident across the landscape: the rugged coast is made of characteristic tuff stone, overlooking a crystalline sea filled with pristine inlets and traces of ancient craters. The hinterland is instead undulating, highly fertile, and covered with typical Mediterranean vegetation that offers visitors a landscape of rare, untouched beauty.

Historic Villages and Cultural Highlights

• Terra Murata: Rising on the highest promontory of Procida, this historic core was originally named Terra Casata. It became known as Terra Murata when Cardinal Innico d'Avalos d'Aragona, feudal lord of the island, ordered the construction of the formidable Castle of Avalos and a fortified citadel wall accessed via the Iron Gate to repel continuous pirate raids. Over the centuries, the castle evolved from a royal residence into a state prison.
• Marina di Procida: Developing rapidly during the sixteenth century, the bustling port centers around the historical sailors' church dedicated to the Madonna della Pietà and San Giovanni Battista (1619). Generously funded by the seafaring families, it features six precious marble altars and a remarkable wooden Pietà group, where a silver heart securely encloses the names of the local mariners who sacrificed their earnings to the temple.
• La Corricella: A small, picturesque fishing village that preserves the cultural and socio-economic identity of the island perfectly intact. Inaccessible to vehicular traffic, this peaceful harbor resembles a seaside nativity scene with its pastel-colored houses, steep climbing stairways, and ancient arches.