Be sure to head downstairs, to the cathedral’s Crypt of Nobles! It dates from the 11th century. The walls feature the remains of ancient frescoes, dating back to the 13th century.
The Casa del Sole is a building that was originally part of the ancient castle, but now, it hosts modern art, as well as a display of archaeological finds.
The Chiesa di San Pietro a Pantaniello is now deconsecrated. The large, arched windows, we see today, would each have led to a chapel when the church was first built. It dates from 1564, and was built by Dionisio Basso, as a gift to his son, Pompeo, who was a priest.
Grape vines were cultivated on the slopes of the island on which the castle sits, and so, it was only natural that an area was set aside for the pressing of the grapes, and for the storage of the wine.
In 1823, the Bourbons of Naples turned a part of the complex into a prison. Many political prisoners were kept here, on the island, isolated from the rest of the world.
Next up: We finish our visit to the Castello Aragonese, and then, head up to the top of the mountain, for a delicious dinner!
<em>Note: This blog is written in English, and the author takes no responsibility for the quality of any translations that may appear. If you have enjoyed this post, please, check out our archives for more posts from Ischia, as well as other Italian destinations. Grazie!</em>