Excavations in the ancient town of Vico Equense have found remains dating to the 6th century B.C., proving the existence of Oscan, Etruscan, and Greek occupants (evidenced by the Necropolis of Via Nicotera). Named Aequa during Roman times, the town survived the eruption of A.D. 79 and flourished until it was destroyed by the Goths in 553. It was then reestablished as "Vico Equense" by the Angevins in the 12th century. To discover the delightful medieval buildings of Vico Equense, start from the main square, Piazza Umberto I, take Via Filangieri, and turn right onto Via Monsignor Natale.
This street is the heart of the medieval town and its buildings shelter delightful medieval courtyards, such as the splendid one at no. 3. Continuing on, you can enjoy the great view from Largo dei Tigli, and, retracing your steps to Vescovado, visit the Chiesa dell'Annunziata, Via Cattedrale (daily 8am-12:30pm and 3:30-7pm), a 14th-century church partially redone in the 17th century after the 1688 earthquake. In the upper town is a 13th-century castle, renovated and enlarged in later centuries, and thermal springs feed the local spas.
