Ischitella

Ischitella is a typical medieval village.

It is located on a hill at 300 meters above the sea level, a few kilometres away from the mouth of Lake Varano. Its name most likely derives from the Latin Aesculus, i.e. Ischio, which is a particular type of oak, and from tellus, which means land.

The city is divided into two parts. The medieval part, known as Terra Vecchia (Old Site) is characterized by terrace houses and narrow alleys. The most recent part, called Ponte (Bridge), dates back to the second half of the eighteenth century.

Ischitella is famous for its pristine beaches and beautiful landscapes.

The main economic activities of this city are agriculture, fishery, olive oil production and tourism.

Historical Notes

The city has very ancient origins, and the first document mentioning its name dates back to 1058. Thanks to its geographical position and imposing surrounding walls, Ischitella has been a solid fortress throughout the centuries

Nowadays, of the old fortress remain only the doors to the historic centre and the Castle, which dates back to the seventeenth century.

The legend tells that the inhabitants of Uria, a town nearby, had to flee away from the town to find refuge from malaria, heading on the surrounding hills (Carpino, Cagnano, Ischitella). The construction of the city, as we know it today, is a result of their migration and subsequent settlement in these areas.

In the Angevin age, Ischitella was a feud of the family of Gentile, Lesina’s counts. Later, several noble families alternated themselves to the head of Ischitella: Isardo, De cunio, De Capua, Ianvilla, in chronological order. Eventually, the territory joined the possessions of Prince Giovanni d’Angiò.

Ischitella is also famous because Prince Giovanni offered this feud to the beautiful Agnese Peregord, Boccaccio’s inspiring muse in his masterpiece, The Decameron.