Guide to Naples

Naples, one of the most fascinating and vibrant cities in Italy, is a place where history, culture and tradition intertwine in a unique and unforgettable mosaic. Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, Naples is a city that has managed to preserve its rich historical and artistic heritage, while maintaining a modern vibrancy that makes it an unmissable destination for travelers from all over the world. This guide is designed to accompany you through the main points of interest of the city, divided into ten fundamental stages that will allow you to live a complete and authentic experience.

Our journey begins with the Historic Center, a labyrinth of streets and alleys that tell millennia of history, from Greek to modern times. We will then continue with Underground Naples, a fascinating network of tunnels and caves that extends beneath the city, offering another perspective on its ancient history.

The third point will take us to the Lungomare and Castel dell’Ovo, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Naples and breathe the salty sea air. From the coastal views we will move to the Spanish Quarter, a lively and colorful area that expresses the most authentic and true character of the city.

The National Archaeological Museum will be our fifth stop, a true treasure chest of ancient treasures which houses some of the most important works of Roman and Greek civilization. Subsequently, we will visit Piazza del Plebiscito and the Royal Palace, symbols of the Bourbon era and monarchical power.

We could not omit Spaccanapoli and San Gregorio Armeno, the beating heart of the city, where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. The Capodimonte Park and Museum, with its art collection and lush gardens, will be our eighth stop.

The Umberto I Gallery and the San Carlo Theater represent the ninth point of our guide, a tribute to the architectural beauty and theatrical tradition of Naples. Finally, we will conclude our journey with an immersion in Neapolitan gastronomy, a riot of flavors and aromas that you will not be able to forget.

Get ready to discover a Naples that will surprise you at every corner, a city that never ceases to amaze and that will leave you with the desire to return again and again. Welcome to the Naples guide!

Historical Center of Naples

The Historical Center of Naples is one of the most fascinating and history-rich places in all of Italy. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995, this neighborhood is a true open-air museum that tells of centuries of history, culture and traditions.

History and Architecture

The historic center of Naples is a tangle of narrow streets and alleys, dominated by historic buildings, baroque churches and ancient ruins. Its structure dates back to the Greco-Roman era, and many of its streets still follow the ancient layout of the city. Among the most important points of interest are the Duomo of Naples, the Basilica of Santa Chiara and the Monumental Complex of San Lorenzo Maggiore.

Main Attractions

One of the main attractions is certainly the Duomo of Naples, also known as the Cathedral of San Gennaro, the patron saint of the city. Every year, thousands of faithful gather here to witness the miracle of the liquefaction of the blood of San Gennaro.

Another obligatory stop is the Basilica of Santa Chiara, a religious complex that also includes the Monastery and the majolica cloister, a magnificent example of 18th century Neapolitan art.

Cultural Life and Traditions

The historic center is not only a place of historical and artistic interest, but is also the beating heart of the cultural and social life of Naples. Here you will find numerous typical restaurants, historic pizzerias and bars where you can taste true Neapolitan cuisine. The streets are animated by markets, artisan workshops and small shops selling everything from food products to souvenirs.

Culture and Traditions

The historic center is also where many of the Neapolitan holidays and traditions take place. Among these, the most famous is probably the Festa di San Gennaro, which is held in September. During this festival, the historic center is filled with stalls, concerts and processions in honor of the patron saint.

Finally, we cannot talk about the historic center of Naples without mentioning its vibrant nightlife. Numerous bars, pubs and nightclubs enliven the Neapolitan evenings, offering live music, shows and a lively atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists.

In summary, the historic center of Naples is a place that fascinates and enchants, a unique mix of history, culture and traditions that never disappoints those who visit it.

Underground Naples

Underground Naples is one of the most fascinating and mysterious tourist attractions in the city. It is an intricate system of tunnels, caves and galleries located under the historic center of Naples, which tell a thousand-year history of the city and its different historical eras. The main access to the guided tours is located in Piazza San Gaetano, in the heart of the historic centre.

History and Origins

The origins of Underground Naples date back to Greek times, when the first inhabitants of the city, the Greek colonists, began digging this network of tunnels to extract tuff, a volcanic stone used for the construction of buildings. As the centuries passed, these underground spaces were expanded and used for various purposes, including cisterns for collecting water and shelters during wars.

The Visit Route

The guided tour of Naples Underground usually lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes and allows you to explore different sections of this fascinating underground network. Along the way, visitors can admire:

• The ancient Greco-Roman cisterns, used for the collection and distribution of water.
• An ancient Roman theatre, discovered by chance under a private house.
• Air raid shelters dating back to the Second World War, used by Neapolitans to protect themselves from bombings.
• A small museum with archaeological finds and historical evidence.

Curiosities and Legends

Underground Naples is also shrouded in numerous legends and mysterious stories. It is said that the tunnels were used by bandits as a hideout and by smugglers for their illicit trades. Furthermore, some sections are still unexplored and are believed to hide treasures and secrets yet to be revealed.

How to Participate in the Visits

Visits to Underground Naples are organized by various cultural associations and must be booked in advance. It is advisable to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking, as the route can be wet and slippery in some parts. Tours are available in multiple languages, including Italian, English, French and German, to welcome tourists from all over the world.

Exploring Underground Naples is a unique experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the thousand-year history of the city and discover a hidden and fascinating side of Naples.

Seafront and Castel dell'Ovo

Introduction

The Naples Seafront and the Castel dell'Ovo represent two of the most iconic and fascinating attractions of the city. Located along the coast, they offer a perfect combination of natural and historical beauty that fascinates tourists and residents alike. This area is ideal for those who want to walk, relax and immerse themselves in the ancient history of Naples.

The Waterfront

The seafront extends for approximately 2.5 km, starting from Santa Lucia to Mergellina. It is one of the most evocative walks in the city, offering a panoramic view of the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius. Along the way, you will find numerous bars, restaurants and ice cream parlors where you can taste local specialties while admiring the view.

The Lungomare is also home to cultural, sporting and gastronomic events and displays throughout the year, making it a lively and dynamic place. Cycle paths and pedestrian areas make the walk suitable for everyone, from cyclists to simple walkers.

Castel dell'Ovo

The Castel dell'Ovo is the oldest castle in Naples, located on the islet of Megaride. Its history dates back to Roman times, when a villa was built. The fortress we see today has undergone several transformations and expansions over the centuries, becoming a symbol of the city.

The name "Castel dell'Ovo" derives from a medieval legend according to which the poet Virgil hid a magic egg in the foundations of the castle. The breaking of the egg would have led to the destruction of the castle and a series of disasters for Naples.

Today, the castle hosts art exhibitions, cultural events and offers spectacular views of the city and the sea. It is possible to visit the various rooms and terraces, thus discovering the history and architecture of the structure. Entrance to the castle is free, and a walk along the walls will allow you to enjoy one of the best panoramic views of Naples.

Conclusion

The Lungomare and Castel dell'Ovo offer a unique experience that combines natural and historical beauty. They are ideal places to relax, take a walk and discover the thousand-year history of Naples. It doesn't matter if you are a tourist or a resident, this area is definitely one of the unmissable stops in the city.

Spanish Quarters

The Spanish Quarters represent one of the most authentic and characteristic places in Naples. Located in the heart of the city, these neighborhoods extend between Corso Vittorio Emanuele and Via Toledo, two of the main arteries of the Neapolitan center. Their history dates back to the 16th century, when they were built to house Spanish troops, from which they take their name.

History and Culture

The history of the Quartieri Spagnoli is closely linked to the period of Spanish rule in Naples. They were designed in 1536 to house Spanish soldiers and, right from the start, were characterized by chaotic architecture and a dense tangle of narrow, winding alleys. This urban layout has remained almost unchanged over the centuries, making the Quartieri Spagnoli a true urban labyrinth that preserves the atmosphere of the past intact.

Art and Traditions

The Quartieri Spagnoli are known for being a true open-air museum. Walking through their streets, it is possible to admire numerous murals and street art works that decorate the facades of the buildings. Among the most famous works, it is worth mentioning the mural dedicated to Maradona, an icon not only of football, but of the city itself.

Life in the Quartieri Spagnoli is characterized by strong social cohesion and popular traditions that are handed down from generation to generation. The patronal festivals, religious processions and local markets contribute to creating a lively and authentic atmosphere.

Gastronomy

You can't talk about the Quartieri Spagnoli without mentioning their rich gastronomic tradition. Here it is possible to taste some of the most typical dishes of Neapolitan cuisine, such as pizza and sfogliatella. There are numerous historic trattorias and pizzerias that offer local specialties prepared according to ancient recipes.

Visit to the Spanish Quarter

Visiting the Quartieri Spagnoli means immersing yourself in the true essence of Naples. It is advisable to explore them on foot, to fully appreciate the beauty of the alleys, the votive shrines and the small artisan workshops that dot the neighborhood. Despite its reputation as a difficult area, the Quartieri Spagnoli are experiencing a period of rebirth and valorisation, becoming an increasingly popular destination for tourists.

In conclusion, the Quartieri Spagnoli represent a unique microcosm in the Neapolitan panorama, where history, culture and traditions blend into a fascinating and unforgettable whole. A visit here allows you to discover an authentic and genuine Naples, far from the more conventional tourist circuits.

National Archaeological Museum

Introduction

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN) is one of the most important and visited cultural institutions in the city. Located in the heart of Naples, this museum houses one of the richest and most fascinating archaeological collections in the world, with finds ranging from ancient Greece to the Roman Empire.

History of the Museum

The National Archaeological Museum was founded in the 18th century by King Charles III of Bourbon, who wanted to create a place to collect the precious archaeological finds discovered during the excavations of Herculaneum, Pompeii and Stabia. Originally, the museum was located in the Palazzo degli Studi, but in 1777 it was moved to its current location, a building designed by the architect Ferdinando Fuga.

Main Collections

MANN is known for its extraordinary collections, which include:

• Farnese Collection: One of the most important collections of ancient sculptures in the world, which includes works such as the Farnese Bull and the Farnese Atlas .
• Mosaics of Pompeii: A series of extraordinarily well-preserved mosaics from the villas and homes of ancient Pompeii, including the famous Alexander Mosaic.
• Secret Cabinet: A collection of erotic art from the excavations of Pompeii and Herculaneum, which offers a unique glimpse into the private lives of the ancient Romans.
• Egyptian Collection: One of the most important collections of Egyptian art and artefacts in Italy, with finds ranging from the Predynastic period to the Roman period.

Temporary Exhibitions and Activities

In addition to its permanent collections, the National Archaeological Museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that explore various aspects of archeology and ancient history. The museum also organizes a series of educational activities, including workshops for children, guided tours and conferences, which aim to involve an increasingly wider and more diverse audience.

Practical information

The museum is located in Piazza Museo 19, and is easily accessible by public transport, including the metro (Line 1, Museo stop) and various buses. The museum is open every day, except Tuesday, from 9:00 to 19:30. The entrance ticket has a variable cost, with reductions available for students, seniors and groups.

Conclusion

Visiting the National Archaeological Museum of Naples is an unmissable experience for anyone interested in ancient history and art. Its extraordinary collections and its educational activities make it a cultural point of reference not only for Naples, but for the entire world.

Piazza del Plebiscito and Palazzo Reale

Plaza del Plebiscito

Piazza del Plebiscito is one of the most iconic and majestic squares in Naples. Located in the heart of the city, the square is a large pedestrian space surrounded by historic buildings and monuments, which make it a point of reference for tourists and locals. Its name derives from the plebiscite of 1860, when the population voted for the annexation of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies to the Kingdom of Sardinia, a fundamental step towards the unification of Italy.

The square is characterized by a large open space that allows a spectacular view of the surrounding buildings and the Gulf of Naples. In the center of the square there are two equestrian statues, one dedicated to Charles III of Bourbon and the other to Ferdinand I, both works by the artist Antonio Canova.

Royal Palace

On the east side of the square, stands the majestic Royal Palace, an imposing historic building that dates back to the 17th century. Originally designed by architect Domenico Fontana for King Philip III of Spain, the palace was subsequently expanded and modified by various architects, including Luigi Vanvitelli.

The Royal Palace was the official residence of the Spanish and Austrian viceroys, as well as the Bourbon kings, and today houses the Museum of the Royal Palace and the National Library of Naples. Inside, visitors can admire a series of sumptuously furnished rooms, including the Throne Room, the Ambassadors' Hall, and the Royal Chapel em>.

The building overlooks a hanging garden, the Romantic Garden, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Gulf of Naples. It is an ideal place for a relaxing walk, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Events and Shows

Piazza del Plebiscito is also an important center of cultural events and events. Throughout the year, it hosts concerts, open-air theater performances, and public celebrations. During the Christmas period, the square is illuminated with festive decorations, creating a magical atmosphere.

One of the most anticipated events is the New Year's Concert, which attracts thousands of people to celebrate the arrival of the new year with live music and fireworks.

In summary, Piazza del Plebiscito and the Royal Palace represent the historical and cultural heart of Naples, offering an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting the city.

Spaccanapoli and San Gregorio Armeno

Spaccanapoli

Spaccanapoli is one of the main arteries of the Historical Center of Naples, famous for its historical and cultural importance. The name "Spaccanapoli" derives from its characteristic of "splitting" the city center in two, creating a straight line that crosses the ancient city from east to west. The street is officially made up of several streets: Via Benedetto Croce, Via San Biagio dei Librai and Via Vicaria Vecchia, just to name a few.

Walking along Spaccanapoli, you can admire numerous historic buildings, churches and monuments that tell centuries of history. Among these, the Monastery of Santa Chiara, with its majolica cloister, is an unmissable attraction. Spaccanapoli is also a lively place, full of craft shops, cafes and restaurants where you can taste true Neapolitan cuisine.

Saint Gregory of Armeno

San Gregorio Armeno is one of the most fascinating and characteristic streets of Naples, famous throughout the world for its artisan workshops specialized in the production of nativity scenes. Located a few steps from Spaccanapoli, this narrow and crowded street is a real paradise for lovers of craftsmanship and Christmas tradition.

The shops of San Gregorio Armeno are open all year round, but it is during the Christmas period that the street comes alive the most. Here, visitors can find figurines of all kinds, from the more traditional Nativity figures to current affairs and pop culture characters. Each workshop has its own unique style, and many of them are run by families of artisans who pass down the craft from generation to generation.

In addition to the shops, San Gregorio Armeno also houses the Church of San Gregorio Armeno, a masterpiece of Neapolitan Baroque. The church is famous for its cloister and its rich interior decoration, with frescoes and sculptures of great artistic value.

Visiting Spaccanapoli and San Gregorio Armeno is a unique experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Naples. These places represent the beating heart of the city, where history, art and daily life intertwine in a fascinating and irresistible mix.

Capodimonte Park and Museum

Introduction

The Capodimonte Park and Museum represent one of the most precious gems of Naples, a place where art and nature come together in a perfect union. Located in the upper part of the city, the complex offers breathtaking panoramic views and a rich collection of works of art, as well as vast green spaces that invite you to walk and relax.

The Park

The Capodimonte Park is one of the largest urban parks in Italy, extending over an area of ​​approximately 134 hectares. The park is characterized by woods, green lawns and tree-lined avenues, offering a peaceful refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here visitors can enjoy jogging paths, picnic areas and numerous panoramic points from which to admire the Gulf of Naples.

The park is also home to numerous centuries-old trees and rare plants, making it an ideal place for botany lovers. Among the points of interest, there is the Tower Garden and the Garden of the Princes, which are magnificent examples of Italian gardens with fountains and sculptures.

The Museum

The Museum of Capodimonte is housed in the palace of the same name, an imposing 18th century building built as a hunting lodge for King Charles of Bourbon. The museum is internationally renowned for its vast collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts.

The museum's collection includes masterpieces by Italian and foreign artists, including Caravaggio, Titian, Raphael, Michelangelo strong> and El Greco. Of particular importance is the Farnese Collection, which includes works of inestimable historical and artistic value.

The museum is divided into different sections, each of which is dedicated to a specific period or artistic style. Among the most important sections are the Gallery of Decorative Arts and the Gallery of Modern Arts, which offer a journey through centuries of creativity and innovation.

Events and Activities

The Capodimonte Park and Museum are also home to numerous cultural events and recreational activities. Throughout the year, temporary exhibitions, concerts, guided tours and educational workshops are organized for children and adults. These events offer a unique opportunity to further explore the complex's riches and participate in world-class cultural experiences.

Furthermore, the park often hosts sporting events and outdoor activities, such as yoga sessions, photography courses and nature walks, which make it a point of reference not only for art enthusiasts but also for those who love nature nature and sport.

Conclusion

Visiting the Capodimonte Park and Museum is an unmissable experience for anyone in Naples. This wonderful place offers a unique combination of natural beauty and artistic masterpieces, making it a fundamental stop to discover the rich history and culture of the Neapolitan city.

Galleria Umberto I and Teatro San Carlo

Umberto I Gallery

The Galleria Umberto I is one of the symbols of Neapolitan architecture and represents a magnificent example of a neo-Renaissance style shopping gallery. Located in the heart of the city, it was built between 1887 and 1890, during the Kingdom of Italy, as part of an urban renewal project. The gallery takes its name from Umberto I, king of Italy, and was designed by Emanuele Rocco, with the collaboration of other engineers and architects.

The gallery is famous for its imposing cross structure, covered by a glass dome that reaches a height of 57 meters. Inside, the floor is decorated with mosaics representing the signs of the zodiac, a detail that fascinates visitors. Galleria Umberto I is a lively place, with numerous shops, cafes and restaurants offering a unique shopping and dining experience.

In addition to being a shopping centre, the gallery is also a place for meetings and cultural events. Its strategic position, near the San Carlo Theater and a few steps from Piazza del Plebiscito, makes it a point of reference for tourists and locals.

San Carlo Theatre

The Teatro San Carlo, located next to the Galleria Umberto I, is one of the oldest and most prestigious opera houses in the world. Inaugurated in 1737, 41 years before the Scala in Milan and 55 years before the Fenice in Venice, the San Carlo represents a point of reference in the history of opera and European culture.

The theater was commissioned by Charles of Bourbon, king of Naples, who wanted to provide the city with a grandiose theatre. The project was entrusted to the architect Giovanni Antonio Medrano and the construction master Angelo Carasale. With a capacity of over 1,300 seats, the San Carlo is famous for its perfect acoustics and for the beauty of its room, decorated with golden stuccoes and a large central chandelier.

Over the centuries, the San Carlo Theater has hosted the first performances of numerous famous operas and has seen performances by some of the greatest composers and artists in history, such as Rossini, Bellini, Donizetti and Verdi. Even today, the theater continues to be a place of artistic excellence, with a high-level opera and concert season that attracts spectators from all over the world.

The proximity between the Umberto I Gallery and the San Carlo Theater creates a perfect combination of art, culture and leisure, making this area of ​​Naples an unmissable stop for anyone visiting the city.

Neapolitan gastronomy

Neapolitan gastronomy is renowned throughout the world for its richness, variety and tradition. Naples, cradle of Mediterranean cuisine, offers a wide range of dishes that reflect the soul of the city: simple, genuine and full of intense flavours. Neapolitan cuisine is a real journey through the centuries, with influences ranging from ancient Greece to Spanish domination, up to the present day.

Pizza

The symbolic dish of Naples is undoubtedly pizza. Born in this city, Neapolitan pizza is distinguished by its soft and thin dough, with a high and soft edge called "cornicione". The most traditional variations are the Margherita, with tomato, mozzarella, basil and olive oil, and the Marinara, with tomato, garlic, oregano and olive oil. Every pizzeria in Naples has its own secret for preparing the dough and cooking it in a wood-fired oven, making every tasting a unique experience.

First courses

Among the first courses, the pasta and potatoes, the pasta and beans, and the pasta alla Genovese stand out. The latter, despite the name, is a typically Neapolitan dish based on onions and meat that cooks slowly until it obtains a creamy consistency. spaghetti with clams is another emblematic dish, in which the simplicity of the ingredients - clams, garlic, parsley and olive oil - enhances the flavor of the sea.

Second Courses

As for second courses, a must is the Neapolitan ragù, a tomato sauce slowly cooked with various types of meat, which is often served with pasta or as a condiment for meatballs. fish cannot be missing, with specialties such as Luciana-style octopus and Neapolitan-style cod.

Sweets

Neapolitan pastry making is equally famous with desserts such as sfogliatella, available in riccia and frolla variants, and babà, a leavened dessert soaked in rum. Other typical desserts are pastiera, an Easter dessert made with ricotta and wheat, and struffolo, small sweet dough dumplings fried and covered in honey and colored sprinkles.

Street Food

We cannot talk about Neapolitan gastronomy without mentioning street food. Among the delicacies to be enjoyed while walking around the city are the pocket pizza, the pasta omelette, and the cuoppo, a paper cone containing mixed fried foods such as zeppoline, potato croquettes, arancini and fried fish.

Ultimately, Neapolitan gastronomy is an authentic celebration of taste, the pleasure of the table and conviviality, a cultural heritage that tells the story and identity of Naples through its traditional dishes.