Procida what to see and what to do

Terra Murata is the oldest inhabited centre on the island, dating back to the medieval period. Its name derives from the fortified walls, built to defend the population from the continuous incursions of the barbarians. It is the highest point on the island, but the spectacular view of the Gulf of Naples and Corricella fully repays the effort of the climb.

Along the road to reach Terra Murata you can see the church of the Madonna delle Grazie, which with its rounded dome is certainly one of the most photographed places on the island.

Palazzo d’Avalos

Arriving at the top of the hill of the Castle, between the narrow alleys and the houses leaning against each other, the Palazzo d’Avalos rises imposingly, a Renaissance building built as a noble residence and later transformed into a penitential prison.

IThe prison was closed in 1986, was partially renovated and is now open to visitors. Walking through its rooms is a journey through time: along the way there are still old registers and newspapers, looms and ancient sewing machines, worn uniforms and boots, and the marks left by the prisoners in their cells. The remains of the van that transported the detainees are also visible, mentioned in the work of Elsa Morante “L’isola di Arturo”.

Strolling around Corricella is like entering in a watercolour painting, where the shapes blend delicately with the sea water.

It is the oldest fishing village on the island, and here you can fully breathe the atmosphere of a fishing village, among the nets curled up on the quay and the clothes hanging in the sun. The rough appearance of Procida in this neighborhood gives way to a cheerful and relaxed atmosphere, a small oasis of peace thanks also to the absence of cars. In fact, here you can only access on foot, through one of the 4 steps that descend between the houses, or by sea.

The architecture of the village offers that postcard landscape which is Procida’s calling card known all over the world. The houses perched on the coast share stairs and balconies, giving the impression of being clinging to each other, and are characterized by the vefio, the typical arched balcony. This place is so particular and suggestive that it is no coincidence that it was chosen as the film set for the film Il Postino by Massimo Troisi, with Maria Grazia Cucinotta. It is the ideal place to savour a little of that “dolce vita” so typical for southern Italy.

Procida is history, architecture, good food and of course… the sea!

There are many beaches that extend along the 16 km of Procida coast; most can be reached on foot, by bike or by city bus.

In Procida there are some of the most beautiful beaches of the Campania coast. The sand is dark, because of volcanic origin, in some areas it is finer in others grainier. The northern most tip of the island, on the other hand, is rocky and wild, but offers truly beautiful bays and ravines.

The most popular beaches in Procida are undoubtedly Ciraccio and Chiaolella, but also Chiaia which is accessible via a narrow staircase set between rocks and vegetation.

Some small beaches, inlets and bays can only be reached by sea and it will be magical to discover them by renting our dinghy.

Among these, the Chiaia dell’Asino, which is located just below the palace of Avalos and was once the only access route to the former prison.

Or the beach of Punto Ottimo, small and wild, hidden in a rocky inlet not far from the most famous Postino beach.

Procida’s beaches are suitable for everyone and everyone can find the one that best suits their needs: snorkelling, sunbathing on the sand or rocks, diving or enjoying a little relaxation while the children play safely. Almost everywhere you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, and enjoy a cold drink or a light lunch in one of the many kiosks and restaurants.

Have you already fallen in love with this small island near Naples? Live a unique experience by staying at Procida Camp and Resort!