Naples

<< Campania

Naples (Napoli) is the capital of Campania and the largest city in Southern Italy, known around the world for its unique culture and rich artistic heritage. Naples was one of the most important centers of Magna Graecia, founded by Greek colonists as Parthenope, and later refounded as Neápolis (“new city”). The city flourished under the Romans and, after the fall of the Western Roman Empire, it was taken by the Ostrogoths and then the Byzantines, who established the Duchy of Naples in 661. The duchy was conquered by the Normans in the 12th century, and became part of the Kingdom of Sicily. In 1282, Naples became the capital of the kingdom (now referred to as Kingdom of Naples), after Sicily revolted and was taken by the Aragonese. The Kingdom of Naples became part of the Spanish Empire in 1503, and the city thrived, becoming one of the largest in Europe and a major cultural center. In the 18th century, Naples was ruled by Austria, and after a period under French rule during the Napoleonic Wars, the Kingdom of Naples and the Kingdom of Sicily merged to form the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, with Naples as its capital. Naples became part of Italy when the country was unified in 1861, and was heavily damaged during World War II. The city remains one of the largest and most important in Italy, surrounded by a vast metropolitan area. Naples is also one of the most visited cities in Italy, and hosts several artistic masterpieces, especially of Baroque style. The city is also famous for its culture, language, music, and cuisine, and it is the birthplace of pizza. Naples is also a starting point to explore the countless natural beauties and historic sites located around the city.

Subdivisions of Naples

Map of Naples