NAPLES
Naples is one of the most iconic italian cities. Here you will find some interesting informations abuot it and about some of its most famous monuments and attractions.
SAN GENNARO CATHEDRAL
Is considered as one of the most important churches in southern Italy and the main cathedral of Naples. San Gennaro was commisioned in the 13th century by King Charles I of Anjou and finished its constuction in the early 14th century under Robert of Anjou. The church is famous for its many notable artworks, for the remains of Early Christian Basilica, but most importantly for the miracle of blood of Saint januarius. Its brought out publicly only three times a year, if the blood liquefies, good fortune will reign in the city, if not, Naples is said to face tough times
SAN GREGORIO ARMENO STREET
Also known as »Christmas Alley« is home to the artists and the merchands who specialiaze in the art and the craft of th Nepolitan Presepe. The street is filled with small shops where handicrafts, small carved statues and christmas decorations are sold all year long
SAN GREGORIO ARMENO CLOISTER
It is a richly ornamentad 16th century monastic complex. The curch is decorated with wood and papier-maché and it hosts the Relics of St Gregory.
There is also a quite and calm cloister,accessibile through the gate on Vico Giuseppe Maffei.
PLEBISCITO SQUARE
In the first years of the 19th century, the King of Naples, Murat, planned the square and building as a tribute to the emperor. Soon after Napoleon was finally dispatched to St Helena, the Bourbons were restored to the throne, and Ferdinand I continued the construction but converted the finished product into the church you sees today. He dedicated it to Saint Francis of Paola, who had stayed in a monastery on this site in the 15th century. The church is reminiscent of the Pantheon in Rome.
CASTEL DELL’OVO
This castle takes its name from a 4th century legend : the Latin poet Virgil was considered a wizard at the time and he had hidden an egg in the castle dungeons and if someone tried to steal it, Naples would fall into disgrace and misery forever. Even today no one has found the egg. The castle was built on an island called "Megaride" by the Greeks and it is the same island where the mermaid Parthenope killed herself because Ulyssesdid not want to hear her voice. From this story Naples took its first name "Partenope".
