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Ischia
Composed largely of mountains and volcanoes, the fiery island gem of Ishcia lies to the north of the Gulf of Naples in Campania, Italy.
Its nature as a volcanic island has produced a sunny climate that deserve the label of "Green Island" by locals,with its fertile grounds a result of having almost entirely volcanic soil. In the shade cast by the highest peak on the island, the volcanic Mount Epomeo, Mediterrenean flora such as olive, chesnut, oak, cypress, almond tres and grape vines thrive. While to the south of the island, the sunny location favors cactus-like plants for more tropical landscapes.
The island’s main part are its historic centre Ischia Ponte (formerly Borgo Celsa) and Ischia Porto, the waterfront resort area, catering mainly to tourists who enjoy the natural hot springs and volcanic mud in the island.
Ischia springs have been favored since classical times for their therapeutic features since ancient times and have been tested for their therapeutic features Springs and spouting steam can be considered as the manifest sign of Ischia volcanic origins and of the still persisting volcanic activity. Baths and gardens have its soothing warm waters as well as springs by the beaches that gush into the sea or as cracks in the ground.
For more cultural sights, guests are invited to visit the La Colombaia a villa which was formerly the residence of director, Luchino Visconti, the Villa La Mortella Forio as well as the Castle - Castello Aragonese (Ischia Ponte) and its tower which is one of the most distinguished landmarks here reached only through a stone bridge once protecting the island people from pirate attacks.
The Soccorso's church dedicated to Saint Maria of the Snow is one of the most original architectural marvels of the island. Its singular facade, white and adorned by precious '700's majolicas representing saints and scenes of the Passion of Christ is original which has influences from the Greek, Byantine and Moorish geometric shapes.
Island fare is simple and rustic, beginning with appetizer served with mozzarella cheese, there is the ischitanian caponata (a typical insalata cafona or peasant salad) followed with rabbit in a terracotta pan (with a clove of garlic, wine, tomatoes, and local spices) as well as wood-land snails in wild grass.
