“See Naples and Die” might be a phrase you’ve heard. It means you must see the beautiful city of Naples. It means you should admire its magnificent architecture once in your life. But what does this have to do with Villa La Fiorentina?
Naples is the capital of the Campania region. It is the third largest city in Italy. Naples has a population of over 3.1 million. The Greeks founded the modern city in the 9th century BC. An older settlement was already present then.
Naples became an ally of the Roman Republic. The Romans respected the city as a leading center of Greek culture. It was the main center of the Kingdom of Sicily and Naples. In the 17th century it was Europe’s second largest city after Paris.
With over 2800 years of history, Naples is home to several UNESCO sites. These include the entire “Historic center of Naples.” Now I will introduce some famous buildings there. Consider this a journey from Villa La Fiorentina to Naples.
First is the Royal Palace of Naples. It is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. The palace emphasizes the city’s historical importance. Constructed in the 17th century, it was one of four residences. The House of Bourbon used these while reigning. They ruled the Kingdom of Naples and the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. King Charles III of Spain made it the official royal residence in 1734.
Next is Galleria Umberto I. This shopping arcade resembles the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan. It was completed between 1887 and 1890. The Galleria was the centerpiece of a redevelopment program. This was known as the “Risanamento.” It means “making it healthy again.” It was named after King Umberto I. He was king from 1878 until his assassination in 1900.
Teatro di San Carlo is squeezed between the Royal Palace and Galleria Umberto I. This opera house was constructed in 1737. It adjoins the Royal Palace to the north. Originally, it was part of the palace complex. King Charles VII of Naples commissioned it. It replaced the Teatro San Bartolomeo. That venue had been operational since 1621.
San Francesco di Paola is a beautiful church. It is on the western side of Piazza del Plebiscito. The square and church were intended as monuments. They would honor Napoleon Bonaparte. King Joachim Murat of Naples commissioned them. He was Napoleon’s brother-in-law. Ferdinand I completed the Neoclassical structure as a church. This happened in 1816.
Castel Nuovo means “New Castle.” It is one of the most imposing buildings in Naples. The castle was completed in 1279. It served as a royal residence until 1815. One striking feature is the triumph arch. It was constructed between two watchtowers. This element was completed in 1470.
Castel dell’Ovo means “Egg Castle”. It is derived from a legend. The Roman poet Virgil put an egg in its foundations. If the egg breaks, the castle will be destroyed. Constructed on the island “Megaride,” it now stands on a peninsula. It provides sweeping views. It’s the oldest castle in Naples. Its history goes back to the 6th century BC.
Finally, the Toledo Metro Station. The Castel dell’Ovo is one of the oldest buildings. The Toledo Metro Station is the newest. It opened in 2012. It won the 2013 LEAF Award.
Villa La Fiorentina offers its own kind of beauty. It is a beauty tied to the coast, not a bustling city. But like Naples, it holds history and charm. Both places offer an unforgettable Italian experience.