Ponza is a beautiful, isolated island off the coast of Lazio in Italy. It’s often overlooked by tourists in favor of nearby islands like Ischia and Capri. It’s actually a great place to visit if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The island has a rich history that dates back thousands of years.
If you’re looking for a place to get away, you may want to consider Ponza Island. It is located off the coast of Italy in the Tyrrhenian Sea. This island has a rich history and offers plenty of activities for those who visit.
The history of Ponza Island
The island was first colonized by the ancient Greeks in 330 BCE. Later is was later ruled by the Romans until they fell from power in 535 CE. During this time, it was known as Pontia.
Ponza was first inhabited by the Etruscans around 800 BCE. They called the island Pontia or Ponta.
It was named Ponza in 1295 by King Charles II of Naples, who also gave it to his wife as a gift.
In 1733, Ponza was given back to the crown. This time it was given to Prince Philip V of Spain, who sold it to Marquis Giorgio Pignatelli di Belmonte in 1784.
The Marquis had many different plans for Ponza. He wanted to turn it into a prison colony, an asylum for the mentally ill, and an agricultural colony for poor people from Naples and other cities nearby. None of these plans worked out very well though. So many people died on Ponza during this period that it became known as “Isola dei Morti” (Island of Death).
In 1806 Napoleon Bonaparte decided to give Ponza back to France. Two years later he changed his mind again and gave it back to Italy instead!
Ponza Climate
The climate on Ponza is warm year-round with a mean temperature of 74 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius). The summers are hot and humid. The winters are mild with temperatures rarely dropping below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius).
Getting to Ponza
The best way to reach Ponza is by boat from nearby Ventotene or through private charter planes that land at the airport on the island. Once you arrive, there are plenty of restaurants with outdoor seating. Overlook the ocean while you enjoy your meal and take in views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Why visit Ponza
On Ponza you find white sandy beaches and clear blue waters—perfect for swimming or snorkelling! Enjoy swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving off these reefs. Be careful not to touch them because they are delicate ecosystems that must be protected at all costs!
There are also plenty of activities available on land: hiking trails lead up into hillsides covered with olive trees and cypress trees; horseback riding tours are offered through lush green forests; there are several golf courses available; and there’s even a small casino!
The main town on the island is called Ponza City. This is where you find most of the hotels and restaurants. If you’re looking for a more secluded getaway though, there are also several other smaller towns on the island that offer relaxing lodging options.
