Finding yourself in a city like Naples, rich in history, art, dream views and exquisite food, can put us in front of the dilemma of having to choose what to see if we have little time available. So here are five corners of Partenope to discover for an intense but breathtaking tour.
Spaccanapoli
There is a long road that cuts the city of Naples in a straight line. A gash in the belly of the historic center, not surprisingly known as Spaccanapoli, which leads from the Spanish Quarters to Forcella. A long line full of history, art and life. It is one of the three decumans exploited by the Romans to organize cities on the basis of Greek constructions.
Ancient palaces, numerous charming churches and countless legends. A summary of all that Naples has to offer, excluding the sea. A window on the soul of a people, without hiding any nuance of the wide range of colors.
Along the way it is possible to deviate slightly and visit the Sansevero Chapel, which houses the Veiled Christ. A work of absolute value, known throughout the world. The figure of Jesus is wrapped in a marble veil that appears real to the eyes of tourists. Legend has it that originally it was, later transformed into marble by the Prince of San Severo, a well-known alchemist.
Various accesses to Underground Naples. Some are present right along Spaccanapoli. Visiting the city also means getting to know its bowels. Its belly hides ravines, caves, tunnels and stories from various eras. Used as a refuge during bombing, a source of water and a refuge for criminals over time.
Archaeological Museum of Naples
The National Archaeological Museum of Naples, known as MANN, is a whirlwind of history from various eras. A structure born in 1816, once a riding school and later the seat of the University. Today it is, in fact, one of the most important museums in the world for quantity and, above all, quality of the works kept and on display.
King Ferdinand IV's dream was to create an impressive institute for the arts in Naples. A widely fulfilled dream, still alive today, two centuries later. A visit to its interior allows a journey through finds from the Greco-Roman age, finds from the excavations of Pompei, Egyptian antiquities and other treasures from the Borgia collection. These are just some of the treasures to be discovered.
Mergellina
Impossible to go to Naples and not be conquered by its seafront, especially in the summer months, when the colors are more alive. A long walk, between the waters on one side and numerous historic buildings on the other, reaching places such as the Borgo Marinari, tasting exquisite dishes in front of the Neapolitan waters and gazing at the splendor of the Castel dell'Ovo.
Continuing it is possible to reach Piazza del Plebiscito, where the Royal Palace stands, to then admire the San Carlo Theater, enjoy a cup of coffee at the historic Gambrinus and try your hand at discovering shop windows and food in via Toledo.
Here it is possible to set foot inside the Zevallos Palace. A building dating back to 1637. An example of Baroque style, inside which there is an art gallery enriched by works by Caravaggio, Giovan Battista Ruoppolo and Cavallino, among others, with the addition of temporary exhibitions of various kinds.
Certosa San Martino
The historic Funicular serves as a connection with the upper area of Naples. Reached the Vomero, it is possible to go to the discovery of the Certosa di San Martino. Founded in the fourteenth century, it boasts different elements inside. From the baroque church to the apartments of the Fourth Prior.
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A breathtaking number of works on display, from Luca Giordano to Pietro Bernini. In addition, there is the National Museum's collection of nativity scenes. Outside you can enjoy an unparalleled view. The whole of Naples is at its feet, as well as from the walls of Castel Sant'Elmo, not far away. An imposing medieval structure that has long been used as a museum.
gaiola
Naples is history but, at the same time, landscapes, nature and colors. The view offered by the Virgilian Park perfectly conveys the idea. A dream lookout. The same goes for the Gaiola. This is an islet placed in front of Posillipo. Shrouded in legends, it is one of the most exciting places in the city.
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Composed of two rocks joined by a suspension bridge. An image that seems to come out of a collection of ancient fairy tales. Here is also the protected marine area of the submerged park of Gaiola. An entire archaeological area under the sea surface. Here volcanological, archaeological and biological elements come together. Taking part in the visits, it is possible to visit the remains of the Imperial Villa of Pausilypon, owned by Publio Vedio Pollione and, later, the imperial resident of Augustus.
