An island fortress with a dramatic past
The rocky promontory on which Castello Aragonese is located has been inhabited since antiquity, with the first fortification said to have been built by Hieron I of Syracuse himself in 474 BC. The castle as it is today, however, dates mainly from the 15th century, when King Alfonso I of Aragon was the first king of Aragon. The fortress was rebuilt and fortified to resist pirate raids.
The bridge that today connects the island to the main part of Ischia was originally a wooden drawbridge, later replaced by a stone bridge. The entire complex included monasteries, prisons, churches, granaries and gardens - it was in fact a separate microcosm where up to 2,000 inhabitants took refuge during raids.
What can you find inside the castle?
The castle is now open to the public and the tour takes about 1.5-2 hours. Some of the most interesting places you should definitely not miss are:
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The Church of the Immacolata and the Convent of the Poor Clares - an impressive example of religious architecture with a deep atmosphere.
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The Catacombs of the Poor Clares - where you can see the seats for mummifying the bodies of deceased nuns, a completely unique experience.
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Panoramic gardens - overlooking the Bay of Naples, the volcano Vesuvius and Ischia itself. An ideal place to relax and take photos.
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Historical exhibitions - tracing the history of the castle, the life of the monastery and the works of art.
Magical atmosphere and cultural events
Castello Aragonese is not only a historical monument but also a lively cultural centre. It hosts exhibitions, open-air concerts, weddings and evening guided candlelight tours. During the summer, you can also visit the castle in the evening - the illuminated walls above the sea have an irresistible charm.
How to get here?
The castle is located on the east coast of Ischia, in the Ischia Ponte area. From the main port it is about 30 minutes walk or a short bus ride. The bridge is accessible on foot and there is an entrance fee (about €12 adults). The castle is open 7 days a week, from 9am to sunset.
