Underground Naples

The underground of Naples is a fascinating labyrinth of galleries, tunnels, and cisterns that extend for over 80 kilometers beneath the city. These underground structures, excavated since the Greek and Roman era, tell a complex and layered story intertwined with that of the city above ground. Initially, the yellow tuff of Naples, an easily workable material, was extracted to build buildings and infrastructure, leaving behind large cavities that were later used for various purposes over the centuries. During the Roman era, the underground cisterns were part of a sophisticated water supply system that provided water to baths, fountains, and private residences. Even today, the remains of these aqueducts are visible in different areas of the city, testifying to the ingenuity and technical skill of the ancient Romans. During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, many of these cisterns were transformed into safe shelters during times of conflict, while others were forgotten and sealed. The underground of Naples also played a crucial role during World War II, when the ancient cisterns and tunnels were adapted as air-raid shelters. The Neapolitans found refuge in the depths of the earth, bringing blankets, food, and personal belongings with them. Even today, it is possible to see the graffiti, writings, and objects left by those people, telling stories of fear, hope, and survival. One of the most well-known entrances to the underground of Naples is located near Piazza San Gaetano, in the heart of the historic center. From here, visitors can explore a hidden world of winding galleries and large cisterns, guided by experts who illustrate its history and curiosities. Among the most fascinating attractions is the ancient Roman theater, partially buried under modern buildings, offering a unique glimpse into the cultural life of ancient Naples. Another area of great interest is that of the underground of Naples, where the so-called Napoli Sotterranea is located. This complex of tunnels and cisterns winds beneath the streets of the historic center and offers a unique exploration experience. Highlights include the Greco-Roman cisterns, the air-raid shelters from World War II, and the Bourbon tunnels, used in the 19th century for military and escape purposes. The Bourbon tunnels, commissioned by King Ferdinand II of Bourbon in the 19th century, represent another fascinating chapter in the history of the underground of Naples. These tunnels, excavated to connect the Royal Palace to the sea and ensure a safe escape route for the royal family, were later used as a storage for seized vehicles and air-raid shelter during the war. Today, the tunnels are open to the public and offer an exciting experience among large cisterns, tunnels, and remains of vintage vehicles. The discovery and enhancement of the underground of Naples have been made possible thanks to the work of enthusiasts and scholars who, over the years, have explored, mapped, and restored these ancient structures. Guided tours allow visitors to immerse themselves in an underground world rich in history, offering a unique perspective on the city and its development. One of the most surprising aspects of the underground of Naples is the presence of underground churches and chapels, used in past centuries for religious and burial purposes. These sacred places, often decorated with frescoes and mosaics, testify to the deep spirituality and devotion of the Neapolitans throughout history. Among the most famous is the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore, which houses a series of archaeological excavations revealing layers of history, from the Roman era to the Middle Ages.