Palace of Avalos: The sixteen hundred years of history of the prison of Procida

Dominating from above the village Walled Land, the majestic profile of Palace of Avalos (better known today as "The Prison") is the silent guardian of the history of Procida. With its 500 years of life, this structure is not only a monument: it is a fascinating scar who tells of nobles, kings, prisoners and a defensive strategy that shaped the entire island.

From Fortress to Renaissance Palace

It all began in the 16th century. To protect Procida from violent pirate raids, the Cardinal Innico d’Avalos d’Aragona, feudal lord of the island, ordered the construction of an imposing palace that closed the only access via land to the fortified citadel.

The project was entrusted to the architects Giovanni Battista Cavagna and Benvenuto Tortelli, who completely redesigned the ancient nucleus of the Terra Casata (the present Terra Murata). For centuries, the castle was the home of the prestigious family of Avalos, until in 1744, due to political disagreements with Charles III of Bourbon, the island was confiscated and the palace became a good of the Crown.

Transformation in Carcere

After 1815, with changing times and political needs, the structure underwent a radical transformation. He first became a military college and was later adapted to prison. Crossing the famous Iron door, one entered a separate world: four floors of cells divided according to the severity of the penalty, where still today it is possible to perceive the weight of the claus.

The prison remained active until 1988, hosting in time common political prisoners and criminals, and leaving inside touching testimonies of daily life: old uniforms, iron beds and the remains of the factory where prisoners worked cotton and linen.

Experience: Why Visit the Prison Today

Today Palazzo d’Avalos is one of the main attractions of Procida. It is not just a historical tour, but an emotional experience.

1. The Overview View: From its walls you can enjoy the most beautiful view of the world on the Corricella and all over the Gulf of Naples.
2. The underground and the cells: Walking in the silent corridors allows you to understand the social and punitive structure of the Bourbon era.
3. Il Borgo di Terra Murata: The visit to the prison is the perfect opportunity to explore the medieval village, its narrow streets and the Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo.

Practical Guide 2026: How to get to Terra Murata

The highest point on the island requires a small logistical effort, but it is absolutely worth it.

• In Bus (Update 2026): To get up to the Carcere from the Port of Marina Grande, do not take the bus to the beach (Line 1 or 2). You have to look for C1 line (officially Bus 139). It is the smallest bus of the EAV, the only one able to climb through the narrow walls of Terra Murata.
• In Bicycle or E-Bike: A challenge for the legs! From the port it takes about 20-25 minutes. The climb is steep, so if you are not trained we strongly recommend an electric bike.
• A Feet: It is the choice of purists. A 20-minute walk from the port through Via Principe Umberto: tiring, but it offers unsatisfactory photographic glimpses at every corner.
• Guided tours: Remember that Palace of Avalos is visitable exclusively with organized tours. We recommend that you book well in advance on the official portal to ensure access, especially during weekends.