Historic Centre of Naples, UNESCO World Heritage Site in Naples, Italy
The Historic Centre of Naples spreads across narrow streets and small squares, filled with churches, palaces, and monuments from different periods. These streets form an irregular network connecting multiple layers of the city, from ancient to modern times.
Founded in the 8th century BC, Naples emerged from two ancient settlements: one on Pizzofalcone promontory and another in the current historical center. These two cores merged over centuries and became one of the Mediterranean's major powers.
The Cathedral houses venerated vials of San Gennaro's blood, attracting thousands during the annual September liquefaction ceremony. This devotion runs deep in local life and shapes how residents connect with their spiritual traditions.
It's best to explore early in the morning when streets are less crowded and architectural details are more visible. Sturdy shoes are important since cobblestones are uneven and slopes can be steep.
Beneath the historic center lies a network of ancient caves that originally served as a water supply system. Parts of it can be explored today through tunnels and Roman cisterns, revealing a hidden layer of the ancient city.
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