Epomeo Museum
A leap into the history of hermits
Epomeo Museum
At 789 meters above sea level, with an unrivaled view of the entire island, the Epomeo Museum – located within the extraordinary spaces of the hermitage, entirely carved into green tuff, a remarkable example of rock-cut architecture – offers a unique journey through the history of Ischia, between rituals and myths linked to the mountain that watches over the island.
In the spaces of nuns and hermits
Inside, the ancient spaces dedicated to the spiritual retreat of the hermits and, for a brief period during the 1500s, the Poor Clare nuns, have been reconstructed with great care. Thus pantry and refectory, scriptorium and cells, even a small kitchen, have taken shape. There is no shortage of period utensils and valuable evidence of rural life on the land island. Among the tales inspiring the current reconstruction of the spaces is that of the life of Joseph of Argouth, who commanded the military garrison stationed on the island and who retired to private life right here after a vow to St. Nicholas, who pardoned him during an ambush by some thugs.
Embellishing the architecture are extraordinary windows that open onto the geology of the entire island, as well as the path of a striking permanent photo exhibit, which traces the culture and folk traditions of the last century of the small hamlet of Fontana
The trekking route to the Epomeo Museum
The museum is only accessible on foot, at the end of a scenic trek along an old mule track that leads, just beyond the hermitage, to the summit of the mountain.
The museum visit includes the charming Church of St. Nicholas, built in the 15th century, and a notable relics chapel. It is open from Thursday to Sunday, with seasonal and weather-dependent hours – especially in winter, when good conditions are essential to reach the site.
