We're now moving to Italy, to the island called Ischia.

It is a volcanic island about 30 kilometres from the city of Naples. It is almost entirely mountainous, the highest peak is Mount Epomeo at 788 metres. Because of its volcanic activity, most tourist visit Ischia to enjoy thermal spas with plenty of hot springs and volcanic mud. But those who prefer historic monuments than relaxing baths, will not be disappointed either. On a small rocky islet just by the coast of Ischia there is an impressive medieval Aragonese Castle. Built in 474 BC, it was once home to about 2000 families. If you'd like to have a look inside, you have to cross a 220 metres long stone bridge and then go through a tunnel.

Ischia's current name was first mentioned in a letter from Pope Leo III to Charlemagne in 813. "Iscla", which appeared in the letter, might have been derived from "insula" (island) or Semitic "I-schra" meaning "black island". Interestingly, nowadays it is often called "the green island" because of its rich vegetation.

The Romans called it Aenaria, the Greeks, Pithekoūsai. Both those names seem to derive from words for monkey (arimos & píthēkos), which might suggest that the island was just like Gibraltar, home to a large group of monkeys. There are however no records of such 'inhabitants' of this island.

ischia

country

Italy

location

in the Tyrrhenian Sea

inhabitants

62,027

biggest town

Ischia

postcard sent

13.01.2015

postcard received

19.01.2015

distance travelled

~860km

sent from

Ischia

Thank you Roberto!