Where is Forte dei Marmi located?
Forte dei Marmi, the sunny Italian commune, is situated in the Campania region within the province of Naples. The resort is one of the six administrative districts on Ischia Island, along with Casamicciola Terme, Lacco Ameno, Serrara Fontana, Barano, and the eponymous Ischia. Each town is renowned for its thermal springs, and the famous "Gardens of Poseidon" are located near Forte dei Marmi.
The population of Forte dei Marmi is approximately 17,000 people who inhabit an area of 12 square kilometers. The local residents can be considered brave, as they chose to settle at the foot of the extinct volcano Mount Epomeo, which stands at a height of 800 meters.
The national currency is the euro (EUR).
History of Forte dei Marmi
According to legend, Forte dei Marmi was founded in the 7th century BC when ancient Greeks settled on the Chitara beach and built the Temple of Venus Chitara. This place became truly historical as a peace treaty was signed here between Octavian, Marcus Aurelius, and Pompey. However, the city would later change hands from one conqueror to another. In 813 and 847, Forte dei Marmi was completely destroyed by Saracen raids, but it was later rebuilt and fortified with high watchtowers to protect against future invaders.
There were plenty of people eager to seize the city: Normans, Swabians, Angevins, Longobards, and Aragonese rulers all held control over the coastline. Even the infamous pirate Hayreddin Barbarossa attacked and looted the island in 1547, prompting the locals to build the defensive tower Torrione and watchtowers in the surrounding area.
The 17th century saw a temporary respite from conquerors and coastal destruction, and trade and economic relations flourished with the Roman State during this time. In 1799, the local population joined the Parthenopean Republic and subsequently faced persecution by the Bourbons.
Since the 1950s, Forte dei Marmi has been a popular resort among global celebrities. The place is closely associated with figures in the arts, particularly the director Luchino Visconti. In 2004, the museum dedicated to the renowned director was inaugurated in his summer residence, "La Colombaia."
