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They don’t call Naples as an enthralling open-air Mediterranean museum for nothing. For years, this Italian city has been drawing flocks of visitors with its exhilarating collection of statues and historic monuments. Billed as one of the best places to visit in Europe for history buffs, Naples flaunts an intriguing heritage, displayed wondrously by its structures, monuments and UNESCO World Heritage sites. As you explore the city, you’ll find a plethora of historic sites featuring a mixture of Greek, Roman, Swedish, Spanish and French touches.
With a seemingly endless string of historic sites, picking the best places to visit in Naples can turn be quite a handful for first-time visitors. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best and can’t-miss historic places to visit in Naples, Italy.
Castel dell’Ovo
Known as the city’s oldest castle, Castel dell’Ovo, or also referred as the Castle of the Egg, is a wondrous historic monument located on the Bay of Napoli. Built by the Normans in the 12th century, the castle is a charming and impressive sight that will leave its beholders in awe. When you walk up the castle’s ramparts, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views. To make things even better, the castle is home to the Museum of Prehistory.
Catacombe di San Gennaro
Sure, it’s rather creepy, cold and odd, but trust me, it’s a fascinating work of art. Adorned with striking religious frescoes, the Catacombe di San Gennaro is the city’s oldest and arguably the most beloved catacomb. Riddled with tombs, corridors and vestibules, the Catacombe is a historic site that dates back from the second century, making it one of the must-see historic places to visit in Naples.
The Bourbon Tunnel
Got some spare time on your visit to Naples, Italy? Why not include a pit stop to the Bourbon Tunnel to your list of things to do in Naples, Italy? Hidden beneath the historic city, the Bourbon Tunnel is a beguiling labyrinth of aqueducts, royal escape routes and World War II bombs. Not to mention, this extraordinary and iconic site has a unique forgotten subway trail.
Museo Cappela Sansevero
The Museo Cappella Sansevero is, hands down, one of the top and most impressive historic places to visit in Naples. Built in the late 16th century, this treasure trove of artistic Italian heritage was influenced heavily by Raimondo de Sangro – a genius of science and invention and the Prince of Sansevero. In addition to its magnificent architecture, this historic site is also home to countless of elaborate statues and masterpieces.
Ruins of Herculaneum
From carbonized furniture and skeletons to ancient advertisements and stylish mosaics, the Ruins of Herculaneum boasts a wealth of archaeological finds and artifacts that can keep you busy and hooked for hours. Although this historic wonder is eclipsed often by Pompeii, it’s nonetheless an attraction that you definitely want to put on your list of things to do in Naples.
Castel Nuovo
The Castel Nuovo, surrounded by deep moats, is an eye-catching and imposing castle built by architects Pierre de Chaulness and Pierre d’Angincourt in 1282. Not only does it flaunt an outstanding and grand architecture, but it also features a resplendent art collection and delicate interior design. If you really love taking pictures, you won’t mind spending hours exploring this historic and intriguing castle.
Naples Cathedral
No list of the best places to visit in Naples is complete without the inclusion of Naples Cathedra, or also known as Cattedrale di San Gennaro. Built in the 18th century, this admirable neo-gothic architectural jewel has been the main church of Naples for years. Once you step inside the historic church, you’ll be bombarded with dazzling interiors showcasing a deluge of majestic religious paintings and sculptures.
Got some ideas that you’d like to share? Want to add a historic site to our list? Feel free to share your thoughts to us through the comment section!
