History Attractions in Naples

If there's one thing that Naples' turbulent history ensures, it's a wealth of art, architecture and culture to discover during your stay. Founded as a Greek city called Neapolis, there is still much to see of the city's ancient Greek and Roman past. The National Archaeological Museum houses one of the world's finest collections of ancient art, including the sculptures, mosaics and frescoes uncovered during the excavations of ancient Pompeii, Herculaneum and other cities destroyed by the devastating earthquake of 79 AD. You'll also spot traces of the city's ancient path in the excavated areas below the Duomo of San Gennaro and the Church of San Lorenzo Maggiore.

Ruled by the Normans, French Angevins, Spanish Aragon, Austrians and Bourbons all before the Unification of Italy in the 19th century, one can safely say that the city of Naples has spent most of its history defending itself from the next invaders. The city's oldest castle is the pretty Castel dell'Ovo that sits on a little promontory in the Bay of Naples between Chiaia and the historic center of the city. Not far away you'll spot the impressive crenellated towers of the Castel Nuovo built by 1282 by the French Angevins. High above the city in Vomero, the Castel Sant'Elmo watches over the city and offers fabulous views of the Bay of Naples.

Naples has an important religious history and is home to many exquisite churches. Visit the grand Gothic Church of Santa Chiara, which also houses an excellent art collection and has a colorful tiled cloister. The impressive Duomo of San Gennaro is another key spot for understanding the religious history of Naples. Be sure the visit the Chapel dedicated to the city's patron saint and protector San Gennaro, a lavishly decorated room where the saint's blood miraculously liquefies on certain important feast days each year.

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