Pithecusae

Pithecusae was an ancient settlement located on the island of Ischia in the Bay of Naples, Italy. Its exact location is believed to be on the promontory of Monte di Vico, near the modern town of Lacco Ameno. The name "Pithecusae" is thought to derive from the Greek word "pithekos," meaning ape or monkey, possibly referring to local legends or the abundance of these animals in the area.

The settlement was founded by Greek colonists, likely from Euboea, in the 8th century BCE. It quickly developed into an important trading post due to its strategic position in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Archaeological evidence suggests that Pithecusae was a thriving center for pottery production, metalworking, and trade. Excavations have uncovered numerous artifacts, including pottery shards, bronze tools, and Greek inscriptions, which shed light on the daily life and economic activities of its inhabitants.

Pithecusae played a significant role in the early colonization of Magna Graecia and the wider Mediterranean. It served as a hub for further Greek expansion into southern Italy and Sicily. The settlement eventually declined, possibly due to internal strife, external pressures, or changes in trade routes. Despite its eventual abandonment, the archaeological remains of Pithecusae offer invaluable insights into the early Greek presence in the region and the interconnectedness of ancient Mediterranean societies.