TOP TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
What to Visit and Where to Go
Naples and Its Harbor
Even if you have been to several Italian cities, nothing prepares you for the noisy, colorful, and sometimes chaotic Naples. It seems the entire population is out on the streets spilling into its harbor, all speaking at once. The colors here seem brighter, and the aromas of pizza—Neapolitans claim to have invented it—waft through the air, along with opera zones (everyone is a tenor waiting to be discovered), laughter, and perhaps an argument or two. It is a city that will engage all your senses.
This does not mean it lacks rewarding attractions for tourists. One of the world's finest archaeological museums holds the treasures of Pompeii and much more. For centuries, Neapolitans have drawn attention and riches to their magnificent churches, while the royalty of major European houses have adorned their palaces. The city's long history, dating back to the Greeks in the 8th century BC, encompassed Byzantine, French, Spanish, and Austrian rule, each leaving its mark. And beyond churches, palaces, and museums, the narrow streets of the neighborhood, wide promenades, and parks are also attractions.
Naples Harbor
Along the seashore, at the historical gateway to the Mediterranean Sea and the world, you can get a feel for this vibrant city. Naples harbor is divided into docks and basins separated by a series of piers and breakwaters and is always bustling with activity. Extending east from Piazza del Municipio is Molo Angioino, with the maritime station. To the west lies Eliporto (Heliport), where regular helicopter services operate to Capri, Ischia, and Capodichino Airport. Further south, from the quay at Calata di Beverello, vessels sail to Ponza, Capri, and Ischia. Naples is the main port for Southern Italy, and the harbor is its heart, with beautiful views along the bay towards Vesuvius and plenty of cafes and ice cream shops. Stroll here, enjoy the views and the lively atmosphere, as well as Naples' contribution to food history - the Margherita pizza.
National Archaeological Museum
The Museo Archeologico Nazionale holds one of the most beautiful collections of antiquities in the world, many of which were brought here from the early excavations of Pompeii. In fact, more of the city's artistic attractions are here than at the site itself. Additionally, it houses the art treasures of the kings of Naples, the Farnese collections from Rome and Parma, the collections from the palaces of Portici and Capodimonte, and materials from Herculaneum and Cumae. The ground floor is primarily dedicated to marble sculptures, among which are the Farnese Hermes, a colossal statue 3.17 meters tall found in the Baths of Caracalla in Rome, and the Farnese Bull, the largest marble group to have descended from antiquity. On the mezzanine is the collection of ancient mosaics from Pompeii, including the famous 6.20 meters Battle of Alexander. On the first floor (second floor to Americans), in the center of the Salone dell'Atlante, is the Farnese Atlas. Here is also the collection of bronze sculpture from Pompeii (recognized by its green oxidation) and Herculaneum (with a dark patina). Look especially for Apollo Playing a Lyre, a 5th-century original from the Peloponnese, found in the House of the Citharist in Pompeii. Also on this floor is a remarkable collection of ancient wall paintings, primarily from Pompeii but also from Herculaneum and Stabiae. The household bronze utensils and other bronzes, terracotta vessels, and a large model of Pompeii are also worth seeing.
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