Eremo di San Nicola all'Epomeo
Serrara Fontana (NA)
KnownSacred art
The story
A hermitage carved entirely out of the tufo just below the summit of the Epomeo. Here, in the eighteenth century, Giuseppe d'Argouth, commander of the Castello Aragonese, withdrew: after a life of arms he became a monk and died here, in a cell of rock.
Access
Free donation, irregular openings (volunteers). On foot only
The story
The Hermitage of San Nicola is entirely carved into the tuff just below the summit of Monte Epomeo, the highest peak of Ischia, in the municipality of Serrara Fontana. The little church in the rock already existed in the fifteenth century; the cells of the small convent were added in 1587. Born as a refuge from the Saracen raids, it later became a retreat of hermits, including, in the eighteenth century, the noble Giuseppe d'Argouth, who made a vow there to San Nicola.
What to see
The spaces carved into the green tuff of the Epomeo — the chapel, the cells, the passages in the stone — and above all the 360-degree panorama that from the summit takes in the whole island and the gulf. The church keeps traces of marble and majolica, partly worn away by the time and the wind to which this place is exposed.
How to get there
- Hydrofoil
- Ferry
Tips
It is reached only on foot, with the climb up the Epomeo: from the village of Fontana a path leads to the summit in about an hour, among stretches of wood and rock. Wear trekking shoes, water and a jacket, because up high the weather changes quickly. The sunset from the summit is unforgettable, but calculate the times well for the return.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Hermitage of San Nicola?
A hermitage carved into the tuff just below the summit of Monte Epomeo, at Serrara Fontana: the little church already existed in the fifteenth century, the cells were added in 1587.
How do you reach the Hermitage of San Nicola?
Only on foot, climbing the Epomeo: from the village of Fontana a path leads to the summit in about an hour; trekking shoes, water and a jacket are needed.
What can you see from the hermitage?
The spaces carved into the green tuff of the Epomeo and a 360-degree panorama over all of Ischia and the gulf, from the highest peak of the island.
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