Naples City Guide
The historic city of Naples is the place to get the perfect pizza and breathe in thousands of years of history. Visit the city’s three castles, see Italian art at its best in the Museo di Capodimont and see how the Romans lived in Pompeii.
What to do and see in and around Naples
Castel dell'Ovo
Previously a Royal residence this fortified citadel dominates the shoreline. Pay a visit and enjoy the fabulous halls of columns and open galleries of this historic building.
Castel Nuovo
Dating back to the 13th century this mammoth castle was built for Charles I of Angiò and got its title of New Castle after the period of rebuilding requested by Alfonso of Aragon. Of particular note is the engraved gate which stands in commemoration of the Aragonese conquest.
Castel Sant'Elmo
This 12th century stronghold takes the shape of a six pointed star and has been used for defense purposes, as a prison and today as a cultural centre. The underground cells are fascinating and the terraces provide fabulous panoramic views over Naples.
Teatro San Carlo
Constructed in 1737 and damaged by fire in 1816 this attractive theatre complete with ionic columns, high-reliefs and resplendent interior is home to the popular Orchestra of San Carlo.
Cathedral
Dating back to the 13th century, Naples’ beautiful Cathedral and its interior holds many treasures, such as the ceiling painting by Giordano or the high altar by Solimena. The cathedral is also home to a vial of blood from the body of St. Januarius, the patron saint of Naples, which according to tradition is brought out twice a year and liquefies, should it fail to liquefy legend has it that bad things will happen to Naples.
Sansevero Chapel
Sansevero Chapel started its life as a small chapel in the late 16th century. During the 2nd half of the 18th century, Raimondo de Sangro, 7th Prince of Sansevero focused his attention on extending the chapel and filling it with exquisite sculptures. Along with artwork, the prince was also interested in biology and visitors to the chapel today will have to have strong stomachs to view the anatomical exhibit in the chapel’s cellar.
Naples National Archeological Museum
Housed in the former 17th century “Palace of Royal Studies” or university of Naples, the Naples National Archeological Museum, boasts an extensive collection of antiquities collected since the late 18th century. The collection consists of Egyptian artefacts, Roman mosaics from Pompeii and exquisite Roman and Greek sculptures, amongst others.
Pompeii
A visit to Naples would be incomplete without paying a visit to Pompeii. Pompeii is of course the well- preserved remains of the Roman town covered in lava and ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79. Excavations on the site were first started in 1748 and today the site provides an outstanding insight into roman life, from colourful frescoes to Roman plumbing.
Mount Vesuvius
Having visited Pompeii it is definitely worth visiting the volcano that created it. Dominating the skyline of the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius stands at 1281 metres and it is possible to see the crater following a short hike from the ticket office.
Museo di Capodimont
Housed in the rather magnificent Royal Palace, the Museo di Capodimont, is home to an important collection of works by Italian artists of particular note, such as Simone Martini, and Titian.
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Capodimonte National Museum of Art in Naples
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