a very ancient city, formerly populous and strong, situated in a plain to the north-east of Vesuvius, in Campania, said to be built by the Chalcidians; (Justin, Silius Italicus); according to others by the Tuscans. At this place Hannibal met with the first check by Marcellus. Vespasian added the appellation Augusta Colonia, (Frontinus). At this place, or in its neighbourhood, Augustus is said to have expired. It is also said that bells were first invented there in the beginning of the 6th century; hence their Latin names Nolae or Campanae. It retains its old name to this day, but has greatly declined from its ancient splendour. A town of the kingdom of Naples. E. Long. 15° N. Lat. 41° 5'.