PROCIDA, ISLAND OF

Italian Isola Di Procida, Latin Prochyta, island near the northwest entrance to the Bay of Naples, Napoli provincia, Campania regione, southern Italy. It lies between Ischia Island and Cape Miseno on the mainland. It has an area of 1.45 square miles (3.75 square km), and the highest point is 250 feet (76 m) above sea level. Of volcanic origin, it is made up, with the adjacent Vivara Island, of four extinct craters. Parts of the margins of all four have been destroyed by the sea to form crescent-shaped bays on the east side of the island. The only town, Procida, is on the northeast; its castle is now a prison. The soil of the island is very fertile and supports grapes and citrus fruit; fishing is also carried on. Pop. (1987 est.) mun., 10,585.