Next to Mount Vesuvius in a bay in southern Italy rises Naples, a charming Italian city. There are breathtaking views through the alleys and streets, there are also some less beautiful corners but plenty of big-hearted people and lively plazas to be discovered.
History
The city was founded by the Greeks, Partenope, and in ancient times had an extraordinary commercial, cultural and religious influence over vast territories, to the point of becoming the centre of the Epicurean philosophy in Italy. In the VII it formed an autonomous duchy, in the XIII it was capital of the kingdom of Naples and under the Bourbons, it became the capital of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, period that saw the city reach high levels of socio-economic development. This culminated with various technological and civil records such as the construction of the first Italian railway.
Places to see
The historic centre of Naples is the largest in Europe and UNESCO has recognized it as a world heritage site. Do not miss the famous via Spaccanapoli, a road that divides the city in two, along with this artery there are plenty of shops of all kinds, the Basilica of San Domenico Maggiore, from the Angevin period and the marvellous cathedral. The city of Naples has four castles that dominate the city, Castel Capuano, Castel Sant'Elmo, Castello dell'Ovo and the Maschio Angioino. The Piazza del Plebiscito, the Gallery, Palazzo Reale di Capodimonte and the Basilica are a few more, there are countless buildings to discover in the beautiful city of Naples. Do not miss the museums of Naples, which are home to many interesting collections from every historical period. There is the Mother Museum of contemporary art, in the historic Donnaregina building and the new Maritime Station that dates back to the Fascist period.
Beaches
Gaiola beach is a protected area surrounded by a large cliff, it has crystal clear waters and a great presence of marine flora and fauna. One of the most popular beaches in the city of Naples is Miseno, a long strip of coastline that has plenty of amenities. Two other nice beaches near Naples are Bagno Elena and Lido Sirena, which have beautiful water and excellent amenities.
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