Piazza Bagni – Via Tommaso Morgera Walk

A walk through the spa heart

Not all the walking routes in Casamicciola Terme climb up to craters and woods: some cross the town and tell the story of its life as a spa resort. This route starts from Piazza Bagni, the quarter that grew up around the hot springs of the Gurgitello basin, and links the spa centre with the other parts of town.

Piazza Bagni and the historic baths

Some of the oldest and most prestigious spa establishments on the island overlook the square, such as the Antiche Terme Belliazzi and the Antiche Terme Manzi. Here flows the water of the Gurgitello spring, known and used for centuries, which made Casamicciola's fortune as a place of healing. Along the road leading to the square stands the Pio Monte della Misericordia complex, an old spa establishment created so that even the less well-off could take the waters.

Towards the upper town

From Piazza Bagni the streets branch out in several directions. From here you can reach the working-class Perrone district, with its narrow lanes; climbing up, you enter upper Casamicciola, from where you can continue towards the La Rita area, known for its natural muds, and towards Piazza Maio, the old centre of the upper town before 1883. Along the way you pass the church of Santa Maria Maddalena (Basilica of the Sacro Cuore di Gesù and Santa Maria Maddalena Penitente), whose broad forecourt hosts the feast of 22 July.

Via Tommaso Morgera

Via Tommaso Morgera is a stretch of the former SS270 main road, the road that circles the island, within Casamicciola Terme; it begins a short distance from Piazza Marina. Before walking along it, check with the Town Council for any traffic restrictions.

Tips for the walk

• The route follows town streets, partly uphill: comfortable shoes are all you need.
• Some stretches have no pavement: watch out for traffic.
• Mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant times, especially in summer.
• Combine the walk with a thermal bath at one of the establishments in the area.