Napoli Sotterranea
Napoli Sotterranea
The Spires of Naples’ Historic Centre: The History of a City in Monuments

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The Spires of Naples’ Historic Centre: The History of a City in Monuments

The spires of Naples are among the city's most evocative and significant monuments, bearing witness to centuries of devotion and Baroque art. These elegant, tall and slender obelisks tell stories of faith and gratitude towards the saints who protected the city. Although they are little noticed by passers-by, they represent a deep connection between Naples and the sacred. In this article, we will explore the most emblematic spires that adorn the historic centre of Naples, revealing their history and beauty.

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The best beaches in Naples and the surrounding area: where to cool off in summer

Summer in Naples has a unique charm: the warm sun, the scent of the sea and the desire to escape transform the Neapolitan coastline into an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation, beauty and immersion in Mediterranean culture. But where can you escape to when the heat becomes unbearable and all you dream of is a little coolness? Here is a guide to the most beautiful beaches in Naples and its surroundings, perfect for cooling off during the summer season.

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The return of Naples’ suffregna water: a recovered historical and natural heritage

In Naples, among the most deeply rooted traditions and elements that tell the story of the city's thousand-year history, there is a resource that has survived the centuries, becoming a symbol of health and well-being: suffregna water. Also known as “acqua delle mummare” or “acqua del Chiatamone”, this naturally sparkling sulphurous water flows from a spring in the heart of the Santa Lucia district. Once highly prized and widespread, suffregna water was famous for its healing properties, particularly for combating anaemia and iron deficiency. Over the years, the spring that gave rise to this precious water fell into oblivion, but an unexpected rediscovery has brought to light one of the most fascinating corners of Neapolitan history. On 11 June, the source of Suffregna water was officially rediscovered after more than fifty years of neglect.

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The rebirth of the Farmacia Storica degli Incurabili: a treasure trove of science and art returned to Naples

After five years of closure, one of the most significant treasures of Naples' historical and cultural heritage reopened on 30 November 2024: the Farmacia Storica degli Incurabili, flanked by the Museo delle Arti Sanitarie. A long-awaited return that celebrates the encounter between art, science and memory, returning to the city a place that symbolises its deepest identity.

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The staff of St Joseph, between miracles and popular devotion

In the heart of Naples, amidst the alleyways that tell centuries-old stories, lies a relic that has fascinated the faithful and attracted the attention of visitors for centuries: the staff of St Joseph. This object is not only a symbol of faith and tradition, but also a witness to the deep popular devotion that has always defined the soul of Neapolitan culture.

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The legend of the “worn slippers of Our Lady of the Annunciation”

The legend of the “worn shoes of the Madonna” is a popular tradition linked to the statue of the Madonna dell'Annunziata, venerated in the Santissima Basilica dell'Annunziata Maggiore in Naples. According to the story, every night the Virgin would leave the church to go to her children most in need of comfort and help. It would be precisely this tireless wandering that would, in time, wear out her shoes.

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What to buy in Naples: a guide to the best typical Neapolitan souvenirs and handicrafts

Naples is one of Italy's richest cities in terms of tradition, art and popular culture. Besides being a veritable open-air museum, it is also a capital of artisan shopping, with a wide and varied offer ranging from gastronomic products to artistic artefacts, from textiles to jewellery. If you are planning a visit and wondering what to buy in Naples, this guide will help you discover the best typical Neapolitan souvenirs, perfect for taking home an authentic souvenir or for making an original gift.

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The Islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida: the pearls of Campania a stone’s throw from the Bay of Naples

The Gulf of Naples has always been one of the most fascinating destinations for travellers from all over the world. And it is not difficult to understand why: the spectacular landscape, the millenary history and the rich culture of Campania are interwoven in a setting that captivates anyone who looks there. What makes this setting even more extraordinary are the islands that dot the gulf, each with its own soul, charm and unmistakable beauty. Capri, Ischia and Procida not only embellish the scenery of the Gulf of Naples, but also offer an authentic and unforgettable experience, just a few minutes' boat ride from the coast.

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Naples and its poets: a link between history, poetry and nature

Naples is a city that, since ancient times, has attracted poets, artists and intellectuals, becoming one of the world's most fascinating cultural epicentres. Among the numerous authors linked to this city, two figures stand out for their historical and literary relevance: the poet Virgil and the celebrated romantic Giacomo Leopardi. Both left an indelible mark on the history of poetry and, today, thanks to the reopening of the Vergiliano Park in Piedigrotta, it is possible to visit the place that holds their tombs, in an atmosphere that seems suspended in time, a true corner of history and nature.

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