Where the river Mortella meets the sea, it creates a natural landing place which has always been important for this area. According to legend, the emperor Augustus found shelter here once during a storm.
In 994 A.D. a church was built in honour of St.Maria, and around this the village of fishermen developed. In the 18th century a castle was founded by a rich family from Spain, the Ripoli, who were controlling this area for the king of Spain. Today, the castle is used as a museum showing alive fishes and plants from the Mediterranean Sea.
The village has approximately 300 inhabitants, and is the goal for anyone who want to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, swim in the crystal-clear waters and for families who want their children to experience healthy surroundings. Pioppi also has the status of World Capital of the Mediterranean diet, after the famous physician Ancel Keys (Link) stayed here to study and write about the food habits of the locals.
In 994 A.D. a church was built in honour of St.Maria, and around this the village of fishermen developed. In the 18th century a castle was founded by a rich family from Spain, the Ripoli, who were controlling this area for the king of Spain. Today, the castle is used as a museum showing alive fishes and plants from the Mediterranean Sea.
The village has approximately 300 inhabitants, and is the goal for anyone who want to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, swim in the crystal-clear waters and for families who want their children to experience healthy surroundings. Pioppi also has the status of World Capital of the Mediterranean diet, after the famous physician Ancel Keys (Link) stayed here to study and write about the food habits of the locals.