PROCIDA

                    A WELL-KEPT SECRET

When in Napoli,I always wanted to take a day trip to Procida,the smallest island in the bay of Napoli.
I was amazed of its Italian authenticity!!

With less tourists than Capri and Ischia,I had the impression of a quiet fishing village.

The island had ferry services from Napoli,so it was very easy to arrive at the island in 40'minutes.
As soon as the ferry reached Porto, I admired the magnificent view!!

Although Procida is very populated,the narrow  roads were too small for the traffic..

A road run along the harbourside from the ferry jetty to the marina,passing the island's principal church,Santa Maria della Pieta.

Along the landward side of the street , there were shops,restaurants and bars..

The rest of the town was built up the slopes behind.
Above the port was the highest crag on the island,a monastery and until recently a prison.
Ascending through two stone gateways,we reached a picturesque settlement,the Terra Murata.

There were breathtaking views from the road leading up to the walls and from a panoramic terrace looking the bay of Napoli.

Marina Corricella:So atmospheric spot!!So colourful impression!!

Behind a long fishing harbour,houses painted in pink,yellow,blue and green were built on and into the rock !!

Poor slums here and there...

Lemon groves were squeezed into every available space.Oh...and that smell of the lemons!!....

We saw some bars and restaurants there,with tables along the waterfront, painted fishing-boats and harbour cats hiding among piled nets....and that was the authentic feel of Procida!!

An island where locals live and work,regardless of the whims of tourists!!

I was shocked of its beauty and I will certainly come back ..

EFI KONSTANTINIDOU

(Travel & lifestyle blogger)