Queen Joan's Baths amidst views and legends

The Capo di Sorrento has always been a holiday destination. This is demonstrated by the remains of the marine villa of Pollio Felice, dating back to the 1st century B.C., situated on the promontory from which there is a spectacular view of the grey tufa cliffs on which Sorrento rests. Descending a steep flight of steps, one reaches the ruins of this patrician residence, in particular the remains of the quadriporticus, some rooms with stucco-covered vaults, and floor mosaics. Above all, one enters the legend that it was here that the Queen of Naples, Joan of Anjou, used to bathe in this island-like basin during the 14th century. Apparently, the fatal woman would throw herself from the rock platform and then swim in the natural pools, particularly the heart-shaped one. A much-talked-about figure, nicknamed Giovanna the dissolute or Giovanna of the hundred lovers, it seems that it was in this pleasant and scenic spot that the queen enjoyed the pleasures of male flesh, then disposing of the man of the moment to leave no physical trace of her adventures. The walk to the Bagni della Regina Giovanna also affords superb views of Naples and the islands.