Port'Alba

Port’Alba, one of the ancient gates of the city of Naples, is a historical symbol that has crossed the centuries preserving its importance and charm. Located in a corner of Piazza Dante, this gate represents a suggestive access to the heart of the historic center of Naples, connecting the lively square with the picturesque Via Port’Alba, famous for its bookstores and music shops. The gate was opened in 1625 by Don Antonio Álvarez de Toledo, Duke of Alba and descendant of the famous viceroy Don Pedro de Toledo. The idea of building this gate was born to facilitate passage between the different sides of the ancient Angevin walls. Before the construction of Port’Alba, there was a “false opening” that served to control the flow of people and goods. With the new gate, the road network was significantly improved and a new impetus was given to the surrounding area. Port’Alba is adorned with the coat of arms of Philip III, that of the city of Naples, and one of the viceroy. On the top of the gate, frescoes can be admired representing the Virgin with San Gennaro and San Gaetano, as well as a statue of San Gaetano, the patron saint of the unemployed and marginalized. These decorative elements not only embellish the structure but also tell a piece of the religious and cultural history of Naples. Over the centuries, the gate has undergone several restoration interventions. At the end of the 18th century, by order of Ferdinand IV of Bourbon, it was renovated to give it the appearance we can admire today. This intervention not only preserved the structure but also harmoniously integrated it into the urban context that was developing around it. One of the most fascinating aspects of Port’Alba is its connection to Neapolitan culture, particularly with the world of books. The street that crosses the gate, Via Port’Alba, is known for the book market that characterizes it. This market, with its historic bookstores and stalls of used books, is a reference point for book lovers. Here you can find rare volumes, ancient and modern editions, attracting bibliophiles from all over the world. Among the most famous bookstores in the area is the Libreria Berisio, a true temple for literature enthusiasts. Port’Alba is also famous for hosting the oldest pizzeria in the world, the Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba, founded in 1830. This pizzeria started its activity as a stand for street vendors in 1738, before becoming a proper restaurant. The pizzeria is a place of worship for pizza lovers, offering a variety of traditional Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven, keeping alive the ancient recipes and culinary traditions of the city. The gate also has strategic and symbolic importance. During the Bourbon period, it was a crucial point for controlling access to the city, a testimony to Naples’ role as a pivotal center of the Mediterranean. Today, Port’Alba continues to be a place of passage, not only physical but also cultural, where the past and present of Naples meet. The area around Port’Alba is very popular both during the day and at night. During the day, it is animated by students, tourists, and Neapolitans strolling among the bookstores and music shops. At night, the area transforms into one of the main meeting points of Neapolitan nightlife, with bars and restaurants offering local specialties and a lively and welcoming atmosphere.