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Miseno
Misenus
The core of Misenensis class, Miseno today, is one of the most beautiful shores of the Phlegraean coast, full of equipped beaches and bars. There are also numerous archaeological sites testifying to its glorious past. Among them: Peschiere di Lucullo, Dragonara Cave, Sacello Degli Augustali and the Roman Theater of Miseno.
Pescherie di Lucullo
Along the mountain wall that overlooks the beach of Miseno, adjacent to the Dragonara cave, there are cavities dug into the tuff. They are called “Peschiere di Lucullo”. They consist of a series of rooms carved into the rock that, in the past, part of an ancient patrician villa, presumably belonging to Lucius Licinius Lucullus, a republican politician who was consul in 74 BC. These caves are partly on land and partly in the sea, but all belong to a complex built for hydraulic functions and fish farming.
Dragonara Cave
It’s a Roman cistern built in the imperial age, dug into the tuff wall of the promontory that looks towards Procida. The structure has a quadrangular base, split into five naves by three rows of twelve pillars, also in tuff, with a wall lining in opus reticulatum and a cocciopesto. The white plaster stands out, characterizing the space as a clear light spot. The structure has a vaulted barrel roof
Shrine of the Augustales
Discovered following private construction works – dated 1967 – the famous complex of Miseno was built in the Julio-Claudian era and was realized for the cult of Emperor Augustus. In addition, it hosted the local institute of the Augustales. Today partially submerged by the waters of an aquifer, the Sacello is divided into three main rooms excavated in the tuff. The main one is at the center, rising above the others. The cell is rectangular, while the back wall houses an apse carved into the tuff. The altar was located outside and was accessed employing a large marble staircase. Many inscriptions have been found and some important marble statues portraying famous Roman emperors, such as Vespasian and his son Tito. A mention goes to Domiziano Nerva’s bronze equestrian statue. All testimonies are now preserved at the Castle of Baia and the Archaeological Museum of the Phlegraean Fields.
These archaeological sites, unknown to most, make up a tour of about 2 hours on foot called “Discovering the ancient Misenum”. To visit it with a qualified guide a minimum number of people is needed; therefore, booking is essential to imagine the glories of this glorious past through the guide’s explanations. To book, please get in touch with the Campi Flegrei Active call center 081 090 01 80
Miseno is not only archeology and beaches but also landscape trekking with the path that leads to the Bird Sanctuary
Mount Miseno, the promontory from which the Capo Miseno lighthouse stands, opens onto two coasts, one sandy overlooking Ischia and Procida, the other tufaceous overlooking the Gulf of Pozzuoli and Vesuvius.
A panoramic trekking route, made of colors and scents typical of the Mediterranean soil, lost in a breathtaking panorama
It’s possible to book a guided excursion 24 hours in advance by contacting our call center on 081 090 01 80
