Via dei Tribunali, why it is called this way

Who doesn’t know Via dei Tribunali? In Naples it is undoubtedly one of the most beloved streets. Its affluence in recent years – thanks to the boom in tourism – has increased exponentially. But perhaps not everyone knows why it has been so named. Let’s start by understanding its origin. Initially, via dei Tribunali was known by three names: via Augustale, via Capuana and via Mercato Vecchio. Its current toponym, however, dates back to the 16th century. At that time, viceroy Don Pedro De Toledo, decided to transfer the five courts of Naples to the historic center of the city, specifically to the area of Castel Capuano.  Thus the latter by bringing together, “The Great Court of the Viaria,” “The Royal Council,” “The Royal Chamber of the Sommaria,” “The Court of the Bagliva,” and “The Court of the Mint,” became the city’s court (located right at the outlet with Via dei Tribunali).  This choice caused great apprehension among the population, who feared the proximity of the courts in one place. Previously, in fact, they were located in various parts of Naples. 

What can be visited in Via dei Tribunali?

Stops to make include Napoli Sotterranea (which can be accessed from Piazza San Gaetano); Pio Monte della Misericordia (which houses Caravaggio’s work “Le sette opere della Misericordia”); the Obelisk of San Gennaro; and the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore. From here – if you continue – you can visit the street of nativity scenes that has become world famous: San Gregorio Armeno. But it should also be said that to this day, Via dei Tribunali is not only known for its immense heritage of art and culture, the street is also home to some of the oldest and most famous pizzerias in Naples, such as: Sorbillo, L’Antica pizzeria da Michele, Pizzeria del Presidente and Antica pizzeria Di Matteo.