Ischia

Ischia (the ancient Ænaria and Pithecusa), an island on the north side of the entrance to the Bay of Naples, 6 miles from the mainland. Area, 26 sq. m.; pop. (1881) 22,170. Ischia is a favourite place of summer resort, being noted for the excellence of its warm mineral waters, the great richness of its soil, the exquisite flavour of its fruits and wines, and the enchanting character of its scenery. Its highest point is the volcanic Monte Epomeo, 2608 feet, the last outbreak of which occurred in 1302. In 1881 Casaniciola was nearly destroyed by two earthquake shocks. A still more dreadful catastrophe befell it on September 28, 1883, when the town was utterly overwhelmed, only four or five buildings being left standing, and four or five thousand persons lost their lives. The inhabitants grow fruits, wine, and olive-oil, and carry on fishing. Chief towns: Ischia (2741), a bishop's seat; Casaniciola (3963); and Torio (3157). See Johnston-Lavis, The Earthquakes of Ischia (Naples, 1886).