Guide Centre - Tour Guide Phlegrean Fields

History and useful information

This volcanic area extends west of Naples, around the Bay of Pozzuoli, from Cape Misenum. In the first century it was considered to be a “chic” place for all Roman politicians and generals to have their summer homes. The area covers an important Mediterranean port before that of Ostia was built. The amphitheatre and Serapeo (Roman market) indicate the town’s former importance; Baia, the third largest bathing complex in the Roman world; Cape Misenum; a Roman naval base and home of Pliny the Elder, from where his nephew observed the eruption of Vesuvius and wrote famous letters to Tacitus; Lake Avernus, considered to be the entrance to the Underworld. Solfatara and Cumae are also part of this area and require a separate visit.