Thirty minutes from B&B La Corte lies one of the most active volcanic areas in Europe: the Campi Flegrei. This unique territory, where myth and geology merge, offers lunar landscapes, natural hot springs and archaeological sites that tell three thousand years of history between Greeks, Romans and extraordinary volcanic phenomena.
The name “Phlegraean Fields” derives from the Greek “burning fields,” a reference to the continuous volcanic events that have characterized this area for millennia. Pozzuoli’s Solfatara is the most famous crater, still active, where sulfurous fumaroles and 160-degree steam jets create a Martian landscape in the heart of Campania. Here the earth is constantly bubbling and smoking, providing a natural spectacle that fascinates and intimidates.
Pozzuoli preserves extraordinary evidence of Roman times. The Flavian Amphitheater, third in size after the Colosseum and the Arena in Verona, still shows perfectly preserved dungeons where gladiators and ferocious animals were locked up. The phenomenon of bradyseism caused the ground to rise and fall, creating unique scenery such as the Serapeo columns, whose sea level visibly marks the earth’s movements.
Lake Avernus, sung by Virgil in the Aeneid as the entrance to the Underworld, is a flooded volcanic crater surrounded by lush vegetation. The ancients believed that the lake’s vapors killed birds in flight, hence the name Aornos (birdless). Today it is a peaceful oasis where flora and fauna coexist in a unique ecosystem, a testament to the creative power of volcanoes.
Bay was the “Las Vegas” of ancient Rome, the exclusive seaside resort of the imperial aristocracy. The Underwater Archaeological Park protects the remains of villas, baths and mosaics submerged by bradyseism. Guided dives allow you to swim among Roman statues and mosaic floors in a unique underwater museum. Nero, Caesar, and Cicero owned villas in this area considered heaven on earth.
Cuma houses the Antro della Sibilla, the most mysterious sanctuary of antiquity. The 131-meter-long tunnel carved into the tuff led to the priestess who pronounced Apollo-inspired oracles. Here Aeneas consulted the Sibyl before his descent into the Underworld, as Virgil relates. The Arco Felice, a monumental Roman gate, testifies to the importance of this ancient Greek colony.
The Agnano Spa takes advantage of thermal waters that flow naturally from the volcanic subsoil. These establishments, already frequented by the Romans, offer spa treatment and relaxation surrounded by the greenery of an urban oasis. The therapeutic properties of sulfur waters are recognized for the treatment of respiratory and dermatological conditions.
Nisida, a small island connected to the mainland, is home to a perfectly circular volcanic crater. This small island, home of Lucullus in ancient Rome, retains the charm of a sleeping volcano surrounded by crystal clear waters ideal for diving.
Monte Nuovo is the youngest volcano in Europe, born in a single week in 1538. Its eruption, witnessed by chroniclers of the time, created a 133-meter-high cone that today is home to Mediterranean vegetation and offers spectacular views of the Phlegraean Fields.
Phlegraean gastronomy combines sea and volcanic land: fresh fish from the Gulf of Pozzuoli, wines produced on volcanic soils, and garden produce that grows luxuriantly thanks to the fertility of the ash. Falanghina dei Campi Flegrei DOC is a white wine that perfectly expresses the volcanic territory.
By returning to B&B La Corte after exploring the Phlegraean Fields, you will have touched upon the Earth’s primordial power, walked on the craters that inspired the myths of antiquity, and discovered how man has been able to coexist with the power of the volcano, drawing benefit and beauty from it.
