The very stones of Chiesa di Santa Maria a Piazza seem to whisper tales of ancient Naples. Imagine standing here, centuries ago, in a bustling marketplace known as the “Platea”. This wasn’t just any marketplace, it was the heart of the Forcella district. This is where the Chiesa di Santa Maria a Piazza earned its name, a place of worship nestled in the heart of the community. This church has stood witness to the passage of time since the 9th century. It even houses the tomb of the Byzantine Duke Bono, who died in 832 AD. Sadly, the church’s magnificent Romanesque bell tower, once a rival to that of the Pietrasanta church, was demolished in 1923. It was a victim of progress as the city expanded its streets. Today, the Chiesa di Santa Maria a Piazza stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Naples. It reminds us that even in the face of change and the relentless march of time, faith and history remain intertwined in the heart of this vibrant city.
Fontana delle Conchiglie
This unassuming fountain, the Fontana delle Conchiglie, holds a secret. It wasn’t always meant to stand alone. Built in 1938