Castello Aragonese is a castle built on a small volcanic island located near the eastern shore of Ischia, connected to the main island by a 220 meters long bridge. SHORT HISTORY The small island on which the castle was built appeared after an eruption occurred over 300,000 years ago. The island reaches a height of 113 meters above sea level and covers an area of approximately 56,000 square meters. The construction of the first fortification on the island dates back to 474 BC, and was entitled Castrum Gironis (Castle of Hieron), after the tyrant of Syracuse, Hieron I, who conquered Ischia. Later, the fortress was occupied by the Parthenopeans, and in 315 BC by the Romans, who founded the colony of Aenaria. During the following centuries, the fortress was radically transformed, and used to defend the island against the Visigoths, Vandals, Ostrogoths, Arabs, Normans, Swabians and Angevins. The current appearance of the fortress dates back to the Aragonese period, more precisely to the year 1441, when Alfonso V of Aragon built a castle very similar with the Castel Nuovo of Naples. A wooden bridge connected the castle with the island of Ischia. The period of maximum splendor of the Read more [...]
All Places in Campania
Marina Grande Beach
Marina Grande Beach, known in Italian as Spiaggia Grande (Large Beach), is the main beach of Positano, located in the southern part of the town. The beach measures about 300 meters in lenght and about 50 meters in width, and is one of the liveliest and most cosmopolitan beaches on the Amalfi Coast. Marina Grande has two bathing establishments, which rent sun beds and umbrellas and provide changing rooms and showers, and a free area (spiaggia libera) in the middle. From here, you can rent a boat to Capri or to visit the nearby coves. At the northern edge of the beach, there are restaurants, bars and cafés, and at the eastern limit you can find the famous night club Music On the Rocks. HOW TO GET THERE The beach is about 700 meters away from the Sita Sud bus stop located at the crossroads of Via Cristoforo Colombo and Via Guglielmo Marconi (Sponda). Although the beach is not hard to find, if you need directions, use the map below.
Marina Corricella
Marina Corricella is the old picturesque port of Procida, a myriad of pastel-colored houses arranged along a natural amphitheatre that overlooks a crystal clear water. Evocative and romantic, Marina di Corricella is a quiet and seductive refuge with unique architecture for those who prefer relaxing holidays, without the noise of motor vehicles or crowds of people. The 17th century port is famous for its interesting architecture, a mixture of stairs, arches, domes, windows, loggias and colorful facades. From over 25 movies filmed on the island, we can mention at least two which are directly related to Marina Corricella: Il Postino (The Postman), starring Philippe Noiret, Massimo Troisi and Maria Grazia Cucinotta, and The Talented Mr. Ripley, with Matt Damon, Jude Law and Gwyneth Paltrow. TIP: You can get the best view of the Marina Corricella from the southern side of the small bay bounded by the Punta dei Monaci to the north and Punta di Pizzaco to the south, in Via Pizzaco. The belvedere is dedicated to the Italian novelist Elsa Morante, and is by far the most beautiful panoramic point of the island. HOW TO GET THERE To get to Marina Corricella, you must first get to Read more [...]
Castel dell’Ovo
Castel dell’Ovo is the oldest castle in Naples and is one of the constructions that stand out the most when you approach the city from the sea. Its name derives from an ancient legend about the Latin poet Virgil, who hid an egg in the foundation of the fortress, saying that its breaking would have caused not only the collapse of the castle, but also a series of disastrous catastrophes to the city of Naples. During the 14th century, the castle suffered extensive damage due to the partial collapse of an arch and, to prevent the panic spreading among the population for the alleged future catastrophes that would have hit the city, the queen Giovanna I had to swear she had replaced the broken egg. SHORT HISTORY In a document dating back to 1128, a fortification is mentioned on the island of Megaride, now a peninsula, the place where the Castel dell’Ovo will be built later. In 1140, Roger the Norman, conquering Naples, settled in this fortress. Castel dell’Ovo is further fortified in 1222 by Frederick II, who makes it the seat of the royal treasure and has other towers built, the castle becoming a palace and a state Read more [...]
Piazza del Plebiscito
Piazza del Plebiscito, formerly known as Largo di Palazzo, is a beautiful large square in Naples, with an area of about 25,000 square meters, bordered at one end by the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) and at the other by the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola. SHORT HISTORY At the beginning of the 17th century, the Palazzo Reale was built by the architect Domenico Fontana, who turned the palace facade towards an open space, which will be known as Largo di Palazzo. The space became the vital center of the city and, at the same time, a very important public representation area. When the viceroy settled in the Royal Palace, the square did not have an adequate conformation, and the side of Largo facing the sea was embellished with various sculptural elements, including a majestic three-arched fountain designed by Pietro Bernini and Michelangelo Naccherino, and a colossal bust of Jupiter found in Pozzuoli, named Gigante di Palazzo. At the end of the 18th century, Palazzo Salerno was built on a project by Francesco Sicuro for Ferdinand IV of Naples, changing somehow the appearance of the square. Only at the beginning of the 19th century, during the Napoleonic period, the Read more [...]
Castel Nuovo
Castel Nuovo, also called Maschio Angioino (Angevin Keep), is a medieval castle in Naples, located in Via Vittorio Emanuele III, overlooking Piazza Municipio. Today, the castle is the seat of the Neapolitan Society of Homeland History (Società Napoletana di Storia Patria) and of the Naples Committee of the Institute for the History of the Italian Resurgence (Comitato di Napoli dell’Istituto per la Storia del Risorgimento Italiano). The Civic Museum (Museo Civico) is also located in the castle, to which the Palatine Chapel and the museum itineraries on the first and second floors belong. SHORT HISTORY In 1266, Charles I of Anjou, after defeating the Swabians, ascended the throne of Sicily and transferred the capital from Palermo to Naples. Until then, the royal residence of Naples was Castel Capuano, but the Norman fortress was inadequate for this function, and the king wanted to build a new castle near the sea. The project was assigned to the French architect Pierre de Chaule, and the works for the construction of Castrum Novum began in 1279, to finish only three years later. However, the castle remained unused, because Charles I of Anjou, following the revolt of the Sicilian Vespers, lost the crown of Read more [...]
Villa Durrueli
Villa Durrueli is a 4-Star hotel on the island of Ischia, located about 1.1 kilometers from the Aragonese Castle. The rooms, divided into three categories (Comfort, Superior and Superior with Sea View), are fitted with telephone, air conditioning, mini bar, WiFi, LCD satellite TV, bath or shower and a digital safe. Some rooms offer a balcony or furnished terrace. The property features a swimming pool, a wellness centre and a garden full of exotic plants and flowers. At the hotel, you can relax on the sun terrace, or take a dip in the large pool or in one of the smaller pools with hydromassage and aromatherapy. Meals at Villa Durrueli are often accompanied by live piano music. The à la carte menu includes fresh fish dishes, local specialities and a generous buffet of starters and vegetables. HOW TO GET THERE Villa Durrueli is located about 1.6 kilometers from the Port of Ischia. The closest bus stop is in Via Antonio Sogliuzzo, about 210 meters away, on the bus Line 7.
Pagoda Hotel
Pagoda is a 3-Star hotel on the island of Ischia, located about 200 meters from the Port of Ischia. The hotel offers rooms and suites with air conditioning, satellite TV and a private bathroom with hairdryer. Pagoda Hotel offers panoramic sea views and direct access to a rocky beach. It also features an outdoor swimming pool and 2 spa baths. The property offers free sunbeds and 4 sun terraces. A continental breakfast with homemade cakes and tarts is served each morning. The hotel’s restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine. HOW TO GET THERE The hotel is located very close to the Port of Ischia. To find the hotel on foot, use the map below.
Villa Lentisco
Villa Lentisco is a beautiful bed and breakfast on the island of Ischia, located very close to the Port of Ischia. The B&B offers accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning and access to a garden with a terrace. All rooms come with a seating area, a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom with hairdryer, bidet and shower. The rooms also feature a microwave, a fridge and a toaster, as well as a kettle and a coffee machine. The bed and breakfast offers a continental breakfast. HOW TO GET THERE Villa Lentisco is located about 200 meters from the Port of Ischia. To find the B&B on foot, use the map below.
Port of Ischia
The Port of Ischia is a completely natural harbor on Ischia, located in the northern part of the island. SHORT HISTORY In ancient times, the port was actually a lake known as the Lago del Borgo. The lake was formed probably in the 4th or 3rd century BC in the crater of a volcano, which later collapsed due to an earthquake. The lake was over two meters deep, measured about 100,000 square meters and contained an inhabited small island called Tondo. In 1670, a small opening was created to fill the lake with water every time its level dropped. On the southern hill, near the lake, a casino was built in 1735 by Francesco Buonocore, which was at the same time a holiday home for himself and a luxury clinic for famous people. The place exerted an irresistible attraction for Ferdinand IV, King of the Two Sicilies, who dedicated himself to frequent fishing parties on the lake. The enthusiasm for the place led him to rent the casino, some neighboring lands and the lake, owned at that time by the University of Ischia. Ferdinand II, King of the Two Sicilies between 1830 and 1859, expressed his opinion in favor Read more [...]
Beach of San Pietro
The Beach of San Pietro is a beautiful beach on the island of Ischia, located about 450 meters away from the Port of Ischia. The fine sand of the beach and the shallow waters are ideal for families with children and for older people. The beach is almost 600 meters long and about 70 meters in its widest part. Concession beaches alternate with sections of free beaches, and there are also many bars and restaurants in the area. Due to its location near the historical center of Ischia, where numerous hotels await their guests during the summer months, the Beach of San Pietro can be overcrowded in July and August. HOW TO GET THERE The Beach of San Pietro is located about 270 meters from the Piazzale Antica Reggia and about 150 meters from the central Via Roma. Although it is easy to find, if you need directions, use the map below.
La Suite Boutique Hotel
La Suite is a boutique hotel on the island of Procida, located about 450 meters from the beach. Rooms have contemporary furnishings and a balcony, patio or private garden. Suites feature a private furnished terrace, some with sea views. The luxurious rooms and suites offer a flat-screen TV and free WiFi. The property features a spa, and a large garden with a free swimming pool. The spa includes sauna, Turkish bath, relaxation area and a hot tub. HOW TO GET THERE La Suite Boutique Hotel is located about 1.7 kilometers from the main port of the island, Marina Grande. To find the hotel on foot, use the map below.
Gioia 13 Apartments
Gioia 13 Apartments is an aparthotel on the island of Procida, located about 1.3 kilometers from the Marina Corricella. The aparthotel offers modern apartments and studios with free Wi-Fi. The apartments are air-conditioned and have a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchenette and free toiletries in the private bathroom. Each unit comes with either a terrace or a patio. The property also features a sun terrace. Guests can rent bikes and motor bikes on site, and staff can organise boat trips around the island. HOW TO GET THERE Gioia 13 Apartments is located about 1.7 kilometers from the Marina Grande, the main port of Procida. To find the property on foot, use the map below.
Hotel Crescenzo
Hotel Crescenzo is a 3-Star hotel on the island of Procida, located only a few meters from the Marina Chiaiolella. The hotel offers ten rooms with bathrooms and showers, air conditioning, TV and direct dial phones. Some of the rooms offer a view on the Port of Chiaiolella, while others have small balconies. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. An Italian breakfast is served each morning. The hotel’s restaurant is open every day at lunch and dinner. HOW TO GET THERE Hotel Crescenzo is located about 3.2 kilometers away from the Marina Grande, the main port of the island. To find the hotel on foot, use the map below.
Le Sirenuse
Le Sirenuse is a wonderful 5-Star hotel in Positano, located about 400 meters away from the Marina Grande Beach. The hotel features an oyster bar, a Michelin-starred restaurant and elegant rooms with a private balcony. There are also a free swimming pool and a fitness center. The rooms have a white-themed décor and offer beautiful sea views. Each rooms is air conditioned and offers a satellite flat-screen TV and a fully equipped private bathroom with a large spa bath and soft slippers. The hotel’s wellness center is completed with a sauna and a hammam. The property can arrange boat rental on request, between May and September. HOW TO GET THERE Le Sirenuse is located in Via Cristoforo Colombo, about 300 meters away from the Sita Sud bus stop. To find the hotel on foot, use the map below.
Villa Boheme Exclusive Luxury Suites
Villa Boheme Exclusive Luxury Suites is a condo hotel which offers accommodation on a hillside location in Positano, about 600 meters away from the Marina Grande Beach. All suites of the property come with bright furnishings and include a private terrace with panoramic views, air conditioning and a private bathroom with a hairdryer. Apartments also offer a fully equipped kitchenette and free WiFi is available throughout. HOW TO GET THERE Villa Boheme Exclusive Luxury Suites is located about 140 meters away from the Sita Sud bus station, which makes the connection between Sorrento and the towns on the Amalfi Coast. To find the property on foot, use the map below.
Church of Santa Maria Assunta
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a beautiful church in Positano, famous for the 12th century Byzantine icon known as the Madonna di Positano. SHORT HISTORY The history of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta is linked to that of the Benedictine Monastery of Santa Maria, which according to tradition was built in the 12th century, on the occasion of the arrival in Positano of the Byzantine icon of the Madonna. However, the monastery was founded earlier, in the second half of the 10th century, and was mentioned for the first time in a manuscript dated back to the end of the 11th century. The monastery was renowed until the middle of the 15th century, when the monks, perhaps frightened by the raids of the pirates from Cilento, abandoned it. After a few years, the church was entrusted to the commendatory abbot Nicola Miroballi, later elected archbishop of Amalfi. With some exceptions, the period of the commendatory abbots was disastrous for the church. The architectural traces of the monastery were gradually lost, while the church deteriorated profoundly. In the early years of the 17th century, the church was subjected to a reconstruction comissioned by the abbot Pirro Giovanni Read more [...]
Torre Trasita
Torre Trasita is a circular tower located on a rocky cliff in Positano, between the Fornillo Beach and the Marina Grande Beach, part of the defensive system built in the Middle Ages to defend the entire Amalfi Coast against pirates. The first information about the watchtower date back to the 16th century, the period of the Viceroys of Naples. In 1817, the tower was put on sale and, starting with that time, it was privately owned. In recent years, Torre Trasita underwent various transformations, and is now a beautiful guesthouse, which features a terrace with views over the sea, town and the Marina Grande Beach. At the guesthouse, all the rooms come with a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. Every room is fitted with a kettle, while selected rooms come with a kitchen with a dishwasher, a microwave and a toaster. HOW TO GET THERE Torre Trasita is about 270 meters away from the Marina Grande Beach, and about 1 kilometer from the Sita Sud bus stop located at the croassroads of Via Cristoforo Colombo and Via Guglielmo Marconi. To find the tower on foot, use the map below.
Tramontano
Since 1865, Tramontano designs and produces bags and leather accessories in Naples. Its distinctive style and continuous quest for excellence make Tramontano’s products unique and inimitable, sought after by many customers around the world. The evolution of the brand is like a long journey in the production of bags, suitcases and luxury accessories that winds through time, tracing a path of craftsmanship, quality and style. Tramontano is a brand that is constantly evolving, that has managed to balance the historical values of tradition with contemporaneity, creating a bridge between past and present. All the models in their various collections are planned and designed in-house, inspired by the company’s history, but skillfully produced with a flair for innovation and a balanced mix of elegance and practicality. HOW TO GET THERE Tramontano has two stores in Naples – one in Via Chiaia, 143, and the other in Via A. Scarlatti, 174. To reach the store in Via Chiaia, you can take the bus E6 and get off at the station Piazza Dei Martiri, about 170 meters away.
Koi
Koi is a Japanese restaurant located in the heart of Naples, offering a cultural journey through the oriental culinary tradition. The philosophy of Koi is simple: to conquer lovers of this cuisine with an All You Can Eat Menu available every day for only 15€ for lunch and 23€ for dinner, without reducing the quality of the products. An à la carte menu with a wide selection of specialities is also available. HOW TO GET THERE The restaurant is located in Via Monteoliveto, 35. The closest Metro station is Toledo, on Line L1, about 350 meters away. The closest bus station is Guglielmo Sanfelice, on the Line 460, 150 meters away. Use the map below to find the restaurant in no time.
Marina Chiaiolella
The charming Marina Chiaiolella is one of the three ports of Procida, located in an ancient volcanic crater, on the southern part of the island, facing Ischia. The little port is surrounded, to the east by Solchiaro, once a favorite Bourbon hunting area, and to the west by the promontory of Santa Margherita. To the west, is also the nature reserve of the Vivara island, connected with Procida by a long bridge. A port by excellence, Marina Chiaiolella is one of the most popular tourist destinations on Procida, mainly due to the near Chiaiolella Beach, but also thanks to its many hotels, restaurants, bars and holiday homes. Characteristic are the colored terraced houses, once inhabited by fishermen, and the little boats used once for fishing and now for recreational purposes. HOW TO GET THERE From the main port of the island, Marina Grande, located at the northern end of Procida, you can get to Marina Chiaiolella, at the southern end, with the bus L1 in about 15 minutes. On foot, the road that separates the two ends of the island, measuring about 3.3 kilometers, can be made in almost 1 hour.
Palazzo d’Avalos
Palazzo d’Avalos is an imposing fortress on Procida, overlooking the sea, part of Terra Murata, the fortified village on the highest point of the island. SHORT HISTORY The palace was designed by the architects Cavagna and Tortelli at the end of the 16th century, for the Cardinal Innico d’Avalos. At the same time, the entrance to the village of Terra Murata was built, from an order of the same Cardinal d’Avalos. Since 1734, after the domination of the d’Avalos family ended, the palace was confiscated by the Bourbons, and became the royal hunting retreat for both King Charles III and King Ferdinand IV, before the construction of the Royal Palace of Capodimonte. In 1815, the building changed its destination into a military academy. Later, in 1830, it was converted into a prison with two parts, an old one (Palazzo d’Avalos) and a new one, and the penitentiary functioned until the Italian unification. Following the downfall of the Italian Social Republic, between 1945 and 1950, the prison held the fascism nomenclature. In 1978, the old prison was closed, and ten years later, in 1988, the new prison was also disbanded, the place remaining abandoned. Today, Palazzo d’Avalos can be visited Read more [...]
La Scarabattola
La Scarabattola is a workshop and, at the same time, an art gallery in Naples, born in the second half of the nineties, from the ideas of brothers Salvatore and Emanuele Scuotto, graduates of the Accademia di Belle Arti di Napoli, and Raffaele, the group manager. Craftsmen, artists, promoters of culture, the Scuotto brothers use ideas and aspects of the cultural folklore of Naples, reflecting on the nature of things, the emotional and functional narrative of art objects, as a possible means of communication, and a resistance to certain forms of cultural conformity. Their art is recognized in Italy and also abroad, thanks to the production of notable exhibitions. HOW TO GET THERE The closest subway station is Museo, on the Metro Line 1, at about 750 meters away. The nearest bus station is Conte Di Ruvo, on the bus routes 139, 168, 178, 182, 584 and C63, at about 550 meters away from the shop. If you plan to find it on foot, use the map below.
Bella Napoli Hostel
Bella Napoli is a nice hostel in the historical center of Naples, 40 meters away from the Naples Cathedral. The hostel is located at the 7th floor of a historic palace, that is overlooking the sea and has a wonderful view on the Gulf of Naples. It can host up to 24 guests in five rooms. Bella Napoli offers a self-catering apartment with balconies. This apartment includes a flat-screen TV, a DVD player and a private bathroom. The kitchen is fully equipped and features a microwave and a dishwasher. Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas. Bella Napoli Hostel is the ideal place for groups, families and young people. The courtesy of the staff, the new and beautiful furniture, the cleanliness of the rooms are the strengths of this hostel. HOW TO GET THERE Bella Napoli is 300 meters away or a 4 minute walk from the Municipio subway station, about 80 meters from the tram station Colombo-Porto, on Lines 1 and 4, and about 100 meters from the Colombo-Beverello bus station, on Lines 151, 151BR and 154.
Grand Hotel Parker’s
Grand Hotel Parker’s is a five-star hotel in Naples, that offers extremely luxurious accommodation in the residential Corso Vittorio Emanuele. With the precious furnishings, the elegance of marble and glass, and the spectacular roof garden, Grand Hotel Parker’s offers a unique experience starting from the morning breakfast. The hotel matches the elegance of its fashionable district. Rooms are spacious and air-conditioned, each offering a balcony, and some having a sea view. The hotel has a bar and a cigar room, and a great restaurant on the top floor, George Restaurant, that serves the finest Mediterranean cuisine. HOW TO GET THERE The nearest bus station is C. V. Emanuele II – V. Tasso, about 30 meters away from the hotel. Piazza Amedeo Railway Station is about 550 meters away, on the train Line 2.
Hotel Toledo
Hotel Toledo is a three star hotel in Naples, located about 800 meters away from Piazza del Plebiscito and 1,2 kilometers away from the harbour, with a great view of the Sant’Elmo Fortress. Set on the outskirts of the Spanish Quarter, a few steps from the famous Via Toledo, with its elegant shops, Hotel Toledo allows you to stay right in the heart of old Naples. Although the 3-storey building dates back to 1725, inside you can enjoy modern amenities. A free internet point is available at reception and comfortable rooms come with Wi-Fi access and satellite television. Enjoy an Italian breakfast on the rooftop terrace, full of plants and flowers, and with plenty of space for you to sit and enjoy the sun. HOW TO GET THERE Hotel Toledo is situated only 150 meters away from the Toledo subway station, on the Metro Line 1. If you need a map to find it, use the one below.
Gay-Odin
Gay-Odin is a chain of eleven stores, nine in Naples and one in Rome and Milan, that offers wonderful handmade chocolate products. SHORT HISTORY The history of Gay-Odin, the famous Neapolitan chocolate shop, starts at the end of the 19th century, when the twenty-three year old Isidoro Odin, young chocolatier from Alba, embarks on his journey to Naples. Here, the combinations of flavors made by the young alchemist will seduce customers so much that, to satisfy everyone, Isidoro will open two other locations, the first in Via Toledo and then, in 1922, the factory in Via Vetriera, 12. Shortly, Gay-Odin has become a must, and the aromas created by Isidoro are officially part of the flavors of the Neapolitan tradition. In the sixties, Isidoro Odin and his wife Onorina Gay transfer their method to the Castaldi-Maglietta family. Both the choice of ingredients and the processing method remain the same, and Isidoro continues to manage the factory, supported by Nino and Giulio Castaldi. From the workshop of Via Chiaia, to the Chocolate Factory and to the online sale of artisan chocolate, Gay-Odin offers everyone the opportunity to be tempted by the artisan creations of their Maître Chocolatier. HOW TO Read more [...]
Gran Caffè Gambrinus
Gran Caffè Gambrinus is a historic coffee house in Naples, located in Via Chiaia, near the Piazza del Plebiscito. In the Gran Caffè Gambrinus’ art nouveau halls, the espresso coffee is brewed according to the old neapolitan recipe: dark, dense and hot. In recent years, the café has been enriched with tasty variations to the traditional espresso coffee: cream, chocolate, hazelnut and many other ingredients are combined with care and creativity to offer its guests an unforgettable taste experience. The Gran Caffè Gambrinus offers a vast assortment of typical neapolitan pastries and refined creations of chocolate, entirely homemade. Also, its laboratories are specialized in the production of ice cream. HOW TO GET THERE Gran Caffè Gambrinus is situated in the north corner of Piazza del Plebiscito. The closest bus station is Trieste E Trento, about 50 meters away, on the bus line E6, while the nearest subway station is Municipio, on the Metro Line 1, at about 500 meters away.
Le Officine Bistrot
Le Officine Bistrot is a restaurant with Mediterranean cuisine, located in Via Andrea d’Isernia 6, in Naples. The restaurant welcomes you in two well lit rooms, minimal and colorful decorated. The service is quite polite and the atmosphere is pleasant. In this elegant and refined setting, Le Officine Bistrot offers its guests a fresh cuisine, linked to tradition, but with surprising touches of new. Here, you can find raw and warm starters, fresh fish, seafood, good wine and delicious desserts. HOW TO GET THERE The closest bus station is Crispi-Arco Mirelli, at about 130 meters from the restaurant, on the bus line 627. If you would like to find it on foot, use the map below.
Basilica of San Francesco di Paola
Basilica of San Francesco di Paola is an impressive church in Piazza del Plebiscito, in Naples, one of the most important examples of neoclassical architecture in Italy. SHORT HISTORY Joachim Murat, Napoleon’s brother-in-law through marriage to his younger sister, Caroline Bonaparte, and King of Naples from 1808 to 1815, started a project of urban renewal of the city during his reign. This affected the suburban area, which later became Piazza del Plebiscito, home to numerous convents and gardens, as well as a place frequented by criminals. The French general ordered the demolition of the buildings and the construction of a square that was supposed to take the name of Foro Gioacchino. The works began in 1809, but were never completed due to the ousting of Joachim Murat from Naples and the restoration of the Bourbon crown. Back to the throne, Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies decided to build a church in the square, and the competition was won by the architect Pietro Bianchi, who had partly rediscovered the old project of Murat. Domenico Barbaia became responsible for building the church and the first stone was laid on 17 June 1816. The facade was finished in 1824, the interior Read more [...]