Of a thousand souls and contaminated by various dominations, Naples is one of the most beautiful cities in the world that preserves a heritage and a legacy of natural and artistic treasures of immense value. So let’s find out what to see in Naples and which attractions you mustn’t miss.
Don’t miss
Piazza Plebiscito
In the buzzing heart of Naples Piazza Plebiscito stands out, which at 25,000 square metres, is one of the largest squares in Italy. It is dominated by the church of San Francesco di Paola, the first in Naples to be realised with a reverse altar, an extraordinary example of Neoclassical architecture. According to legend, starting from the entrance of Palazzo Reale, it’s impossible to pass blindfold between the two equestrian statues standing in the middle of the square. Will you succeed in this feat?
Il Cristo velato (The Veiled Christ)
It is a remarkable, life-size, marble sculpture by Giuseppe Sanmartino, exhibited in the deconsecrated Cappella San Severo that arouses very strong emotions. In 2006 it was named “the symbol of the Neapolitan city”. In the underground vault of the chapel, you can also admire the anatomical machines – faithful reproductions of two skeletons ( a man and a woman) with their coronary vascular tree perfectly intact, around which mysterious stories and grim legends hover.
The Seafront
Well worth a visit is the Seafront of Naples , where you can take in the breath-taking views of Vesuvius imperiously overlooking the gulf. Along the way you can enjoy an aperitif of taralli and beer, a typical Neapolitan nibble. You must stop off at the Borgo Marinari, a marina near Castel dell’Ovo.
Parco Virgiliano (The Park of Remembrance)
The Parco Virgilianois an authentic “green lung” on Posillipo Hill, where you can enjoy a day in close contact with nature. There are fabulous views and many playgrounds where children can go wild in total tranquillity.
Sant’Elmo Castle
On the hill of Vomero, an elegant district of Naples, stands Sant’Elmo Castle. The medieval castle dates back to 1300, and inside houses many attractions such as the Square of Arms, the prisoners’ cells, the Hermit’s Cave, museums and exhibitions of contemporary works of art.
Travel Documents
Identity Card
An identity card valid for leaving the country allows entry into European Union countries. However, please note that there have been reports of difficulties in some countries with the recognition of renewed and stamped paper identity cards, as well as the refusal of electronic ID cards renewed with a certificate issued by the municipality.
Passport
An ordinary passport is valid for all countries whose governments are recognized by the Italian one, except for any legal restrictions, and can be obtained by all citizens of the Republic. A passport is issued (and renewed) by the police and abroad, by diplomatic and consular representatives. It is valid for 10 years, but in some cases provided for by current legislation, this validity may be shortened.
For more information, see www.poliziadistato.it