Things to visit in Naples
If you have chosen to learn italian in Naples is also because you want to get to know the city. You will surely have a guide or you can find all information you need on the internet. But we wanted to make our own list, as Neapolitans who live in the city.
Following some suggestions for you. We consider that you should not miss visiting these sites!
Veiled Christ
With its masterpieces such as the famous Veiled Christ, renowned world over for the remarkable tissue-like quality of the marble, feats of virtuosity such as Disillusion, and enigmatic creations such as the Anatomical Machines, the Sansevero Chapel is one of the most impressive monuments that the human mind has ever conceived. A noble mausoleum, a temple of initiation, which admirably reflects the multi-faceted personality of its ingenious architect, Raimondo di Sangro, seventh Prince of Sansevero.
We recommend you to book in advance to avoid a long queue.
Castel dell’Ovo
The Castel dell’Ovo (Egg Castle) is the oldest standing fortification in Naples. According to legend, the Roman poet Virgil hid a magical egg in the foundations of the fortress, promising that if the egg were broken, the city would suffer great catastrophes!
Visit the MANN
The Archeological Museum (MANN) was inaugurated in 1816 and nowadays it’s one of the most important museums of the world because of the quality and quantity of works exposed. Many of the objects come from excavations of Pompeii and other nearby archaeological sites.
Strolling down Spaccanapoli
Spaccanapoli is the strett which divides the heart of the city. Starting at Piazza del Gesù Nuovo in the west, you'll find yourself squeezed into the heart of lively Naples. Wander past piazzas, palaces and churches, including the spectacularly-decorated 14th century Santa Chiara religious complex, the Sansevero Chapel, the San Lorenzo Maggiore Basilica and the neoclassical Palazzo Venezia, amongst many others.
Piazza del Plebiscito e San Carlo Opera Theater
Overlooking the piazza are two impressive buildings: at one end stands the majestic San Francesco di Paola Basilica, an imposing Neoclassical structure fronted by a long semi-circular columned gallery and one of Naples' largest churches. Across the square is the Royal Palace of Naples, one of the most interesting monuments in the city thanks to its excellently preserved state.
It's an excellent place from which to visit nearby places of interest like Via Toledo, the Real Teatro di San Carlo, the Galleria Umberto I and the Castel dell'Ovo.
Duomo and Museum of the treasure of San Gennaro
Built between 1299 and 1314, the Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary, also called the Duomo, is Naples' main church and home to important artistic, cultural and historic heritage.
Probably the most unusual item in the Duomo is the vial of the blood of Saint Januarius (San Gennaro in Italian), to whom the cathedral is also dedicated. Believe it or not, the saint's blood is said to turn from solid to liquid during certain festivities..
The nearby Museum includes a large numbers of ex votos as well as silver and gold objects, paintings, bronze busts and an eighteenth-century gilded litter which was formerly used to carry the effigy of the saint in processions. It’s a small collection but definetely worth seeing it!
Capodimonte Museum
Located in the Royal Palace of Capodimonte in a forest in the Northern part of the city, the Museo di Capodimonte is one of Italy's largest museums and home to important Neapolitan artwork.
The Royal Palace of Capodimonte is a grand palazzo built by the Bourbons as a summer residence and hunting lodge. By the mid-19th century, the palace had been slowly converted into an art gallery, and in 1950 it opened as a national museum housing a large collection of important Neapolitan paintings and sculptures.
Castel Sant’Elmo and Certosa di san Martino
Located on the Vomero hill, well connected to the old city center with two funiculars and the metro, you will as well discover a stunning view of the city and the Vesuvius.
The first documentation of Castel Sant' Elmo dates back to the second half of the 13th century which makes it the second oldest castle in the city
Nearby you can admire the Carthusian monastery of San Martino (in Italian Certosa di San Martino). The construction of this monastery in Naples started in 1325. You will be astonished by its beauty, no doubt
A stroll in Mergellina
This is a popular stretch of coastline for a passeggiata (stroll), either along the pedestrian Lungomare promenade or up Via Mergellina to Via Posillipo, where there are sweeping views of the city and the Bay of Naples. You can also taste a delicious ice-cream at one of the chalet located in Mergellina. Otherwise, hop on the funicular from Mergellina to the top of the Posillipo Hill, a tony residential neighborhood with some of the best views in the city.
Piazza dei Martiri
Have you read “My brilliant friend” or have you seen the series? Well, Lila’s shoes store was located in Piazza dei Martiri where there is today a shoes store as well (a famous Neapolitan brand). This area know as “Chiaia” is called “Naples living room”. You will find all Italian famous brands.
Piazza dei Martiri is one of the most elegant squares in the city and dates back to early seventeenth century. It is located near the seafront and just 10 min. walk from Castel dell’Ovo.
