Naples travel guide
Posted by Melissa in Italy
Naples is easily Italy’s most controversial city. You are either going to fall in love with it or just hate it. However, Naples is still considered one of the most important tourist centers of Italy with its rich history and showcase of art. Here are some of the places that you can visit while in Naples.
One great sight to visit is Piazza San Giovanni Bovio. This piazza’s centerpiece is a Neptune statue which was designed by Domenico Fontana in 1600. On the left side of the piazza is the majestic Palazzo della Borsa, which serves as the stock exchange, built in 1905. This was founded by a Greek family on the ruins of Roman baths.
Santa Maria La Nova is a church next to Piazza Giovanni Bovio. It was built in the second half of the 13th century by Giovanni da Pisa. This church has often been altered and restored and is a great way to see the changes in Naples’ architectural design.
The church of Santa Maria del Carmine is one of the most popular churches to visit in Naples. It was built in the 12th century but later underwent alterations.
San Carlo Theatre is one of the largest theaters in Europe. It was built in 1737 for Charles III of Spain and Naples by Angelo Caresale by the Plans of Giovanni Antonio Medrano. The interior was decorated by Ferdinando Fuga and Domenico Chelli.
Palazzo Reale in piazza Plebiscito I is a palace that was designed by Domenico Fontana in the 17th century. The eight statues on the façade are of Neopolitan kings. The palace is located in the heart of the city and the square on which it stands is considered to be one of Naples’ most architecturally interesting.
The National Archaeological Museum is another great site to visit in Naples as it contains one of Europe’s most valuable archaeological collections which were excavated at Pompeii and Herculaneum. The building itself dates from the 16th century and was turned into a museum two centuries later by Charles and Ferdinand IV of Bourbon.
Castle of the Egg is an interesting site to visit. The 2000-year old fortress overlooks the Gulf of Naples. It was an important site centuries before the birth of Christ and was fortified by early settlers. Later on, a major stronghold to guard the bay was erected and duly celebrated by Virgil. It is also said that Virgil built it on an enchanted egg of mystical powers. Legend has it that if the egg breaks, Naples will collapse.
Il Duomo is another interesting site. The Duomo of Naples has access to the 4th century Basilica of St. Restituta, the earliest Christian basilica erected in Naples. An even greater treat is the Chapel of San Gennaro, whose altar is said to have the blood of Saint Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples.
There are many more places to visit in Naples, each with its own history that could hold anyone’s curiosity. There are many more museums to visit, more castles to explore and more art and history to immerse your little tourist heart in.
Related posts
About Me
