FORIO (ISCHIA)
Forio is the largest and most populated town on the island of Ischia. Its name is derived from the Greek word phoros, which means fertile, and the area has always been abundant in vegetation. Forio not only offers beautiful beaches and unforgettable views, but there are also other interesting spots to explore such as the coastal towers that were built as a defence, Torrione is the most famous.
A brief history of Forio
The first people that inhabited Forio were from Greece, from the island of Eubea and remains of a farming village dating back to the Greek colonial period have been excavated. However, this region has always been characterised by volcanic instability and for this reason, places were often abandoned by people who arrived there. The Syracusans and then the Romans came to Forio, then there was the development of the Kingdom of Naples between 1282 and 1816. During the 1950s, because of its beauty and nightlife, Forio along with the rest of Ischia, became a hub for artists and intellectuals, including the likes of Neruda, Pasolini, Moravia and Elsa Morante, just to name a few.
Where to visit
Forio is rich in religious architecture, for example, the minor basilica the Basilica of Santa Maria di Loreto has a stunning interior characterised by marble and stucco dating back to the 18th century. Also, do not miss the gardens of Poseidon in Forio d'Ischia, which is a beautiful park containing 22 thermal pools. Another stop is the famous Torrione, there is a museum housed in a building that dates back to 1480, today it has become the symbol of the city. Be sure to also visit the Gardens of La Mortella, created by Susan Walton. The gardens take their name from the myrtles, which will grow in abundance here.
Beaches around Furio
Sorgeto beach and thermal baths are located near the small town of Panza in Forio. You can either take a bus or a taxi to Panza and then walk down the hill towards the bay of Sorgeto, it is free of charge and accessible all year round, you can even bathe in the moonlight. Citara beach also has an important thermal complex, the Poseidon Garden. The Romans placed this beach under the protection of Venus because a white marble statue was found on the beach, however, it was subsequently lost. The beach has soft white sand and is suitable for families with children.