Sunny Days in Pozzuoli, with a Dose of Sophia Loren's Glamour

In the heart of Italy's picturesque Bay of Naples lies Pozzuoli, a town steeped in history and natural beauty. This enchanting destination, once known as Puteoli by the Romans, has captivated visitors for centuries.

The author of this article, born in Kropyvnytskyi, Ukraine, has a deep appreciation for history and journalism, a passion that led them to delve into the captivating story of Pozzuoli. They have spent over ten years working as a journalist for newspapers in Kyiv and Kropyvnytskyi, and since April 2022, they have been living in Solingen.

Pozzuoli's rich history is evident in its landmarks. Villa Ferretti, nestled in Bacoli near Pozzuoli, was once owned by a mafia group. Today, it offers a small, stony beach that is free to visit if at least one cup of coffee is ordered at the bar. Nearby, the Solfatara, an active volcano, emits a strong smell of hydrogen sulfide gas, a testament to the area's volcanic past.

The sea between Nisida and Capri was once said to be the home of the Sirens, mythical creatures who lured sailors with their enchanting songs. Today, Nisida is home to a juvenile detention center for young offenders who have committed serious crimes. In the last 20 years, there has only been one escape from the facility on Nisida.

Pozzuoli was a large and important trading port during ancient times, and its significance continued through the centuries. Hannibal, the Carthaginian general, besieged Puteoli during the Second Punic War, and the apostle Paul spent seven days in Puteoli during his departure to Rome.

The port of Pozzuoli played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity, as it was a stop for many biblical figures. A ship carrying a biblical figure once docked in the port of Puteoli, adding another layer to the town's rich history.

In more recent history, Pozzuoli was devastated by an earthquake in 1980. Concrete high-rise buildings were built in Pozzuoli after the disaster to help victims rebuild their lives. Today, these structures stand as a testament to the resilience of the town and its people.

The Mediterranean climate and paradise-like landscape of Pozzuoli make it an ideal place for relaxation. The University of Federico II of Naples has even opened a faculty for underwater archaeology in Pozzuoli, attracting scholars from around the world to study the town's ancient history.

One of Pozzuoli's most famous residents is Sophia Loren, the iconic Italian actress who spent her childhood in the town. However, it's important to note that Sophia Loren was actually born in Rome, not in Pozzuoli where she spent her formative years.

Despite its storied past, Vesuvius, the giant volcano near Naples, has not emitted threatening noises for a long time. The last eruption occurred in the year 1944. While the prospect of a future eruption may be concerning, for now, Pozzuoli remains a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.