When I was presented with the opportunity to visit Naples I didn’t hesitate long. I hadn’t been anywhere south of Rome and the Amalfi coast had been on my list for a long time, so a day in Napoli, as short as it is, sounded very exciting! In the little time I had before the flight, I scribbled a short “must see” list, but as it often goes, plans are made to be changed and I had to save my list for another time. I made new friends on the way to Napoli and instead of taking a tour of the city we decided to hop on a ferry and see the nearby island of Procida. I knew about the picturesque beautiful island and couldn’t wait to see it for myself!
Procida (pronounced Pró-chida), the smallest island in the Bay of Naples, is the most densely populated island in Europe. It has an area of only 1.6 sq mi /4.1 sq km , elevation of 49ft/15m , and population of more than 10 thousand people.
This interesting fact explains the view that makes this place so enchanting! Brightly painted houses seemingly sitting on top of each otter with joined walls and small courtyards, narrow steep cobblestone streets with fresh laundry and oranges hanging over your head, many churches with domes visible from far away, and few harbors /marinas with hundreds of fishing boats and yachts docked in them. This beautiful island gained even more popularity when it was nominated as Italy’s 2022 capital of culture- the first island to ever be given this honor. The highest point of the island , Terra Murata is standing at 299ft/91m tall and presenting a truly incredible views of the island, Marina Corricella and the sea. On a clear day , as most of the days here are, you can see Mount Vesuvius in the mainland. Depending on how much time you have on the island you can explore at your own pace. As you can imagine based on the location, the island is built on layers and layers of history. Palazo D’Avalos on Terra Murata (built as a residence turned into a military school, turned into a prison) can give you a peek at the island’s history from the Medieval times on. Whether you are looking for solace or shade from the sun you can enjoy few minutes of quiet in Santurio S.Maria delle Grazie Incoronata or one of the many churches (I counted 10 total for the size of this small island!) and you’ll be reminded of the religious upbringing of the population (you are in Italy after all!). If nature hike is on your list Isola di Vivara is a small crescent shaped nature preserve island (area of only 0.4 sq km and coastline of 3km ) connected to Procida by pedestrian bridge. It’s said to be a great place to get away from the noise and see a wide variety of native plants and animal species. Unfortunately it was closed when we were there. If walking up and down the hills gets you exhausted and dipping in the sea sounds appealing, there are few (6 I believe) free beaches on both sides of the island you can enjoy. As far as food, just like anywhere in Italy, you don’t have to worry about recommendations, you’ll be delighted with anything in any place. The time goes easy on this island, there’s no map with things to check off your list, so don’t rush, mingle with the tourists, stop and admire the view, sit down for pizza, espresso or gelato, take in the scenery and enjoy!
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