Things to do in Varcaturo Italy – what to see attractions and activities

Cuma or 'Kyme' for the Greeks, is the oldest colony of Magna Grecia and the West, established in the 8th century BC. It lost its power in 1207 with the invasion of the Neapolitans. The Acropolis of Cuma is formed by eruptive rocks and fortification walls, and the 'Temple of Apollo, 'which is located on the lower terrace. On the upper one, instead, is the “Temple of Jupiter”. According to Virgil, it was mythical seat of the priestess Apollo.

The Antro della Sibyl was discovered in 1932 and is located at the archaeological park of Cuma. It is said that the prophetess of the god Apollo received her faithful and Vatican in the name of the god Apollo. The tunnel excavated in the tufa rock connects the Acropolis to the southern hill. The gallery has a length of 131m, height 5m and width 2.4 m.

According to the Greek and Roman religion, this lake is named Averno from a dark and deep chasm, not yet identified today, which was supposed to be an access to the Underworld. Near the lake, there are the Temple of Apollo and the dangerous cave that before World War II was the Cumana Sibyl Cumana Cave and the Cocceio Cave.

The Temple of Diana is located within the municipal territory of Bacoli in the province of Naples. It is an archaeological site located in Baia. The building has special architectural and decorative elements of the time. The Temple was characterized by a colossal ogival dome, today collapsed in half. The construction looks like a large circular classroom enrolled in an octagon.

The archaeological area was an ancient area inhabited in the second century BC. It is a question of retracing the whole history of the evolution of Pozzuoli, as physical testimonies within the Terra Ward create a link of history from the first Roman and Greek colonizations, up to modernity. Over the years he suffered a lot of damage. It is still in the process of restoration.

It is a very important monument for the large number of tombs. The buildings were built in the ancient gates of Pozzuoli at different ages and from ancient times they have been transformed into Christian cemeteries. Some of these buildings today are used as cellars or olive trees for sheep and goats. The presence of the numerous semicircular cavities is explained by the fact that the pagans used cremation for the dead. Some tombs still have the interior decoration intact, but almost all the tombs over time have been tampered with or subject to theft.

The temple built between the 1st and 2nd century AD was used until the fourth century. The construction has undergone several restorations. Currently, the property has a decent state of conservation. Of the classic scheme of succession calidarium-tepidarium-frigidarium, now only the frigidarium with the remains of the original environments is visible.

It is a nature reserve that is located in the area of the Campi Flegraean and is considered the best preserved in its structure. On this crater, which is currently managed by WWF Italy, we can admire a wide variety of animal species among which stands out the tobacco darker, the grey heron, the oak mouse and many others. The flora is also rich in species such as red oak, the poplar of Canada and many other species unique in their kind.

Built in a strategic place at the end of the fifteenth century by Alfonso of Aragon, it was part of a program for the construction of fortification systems that extended throughout Italy by Aragon. It is a large architectural complex of Roman origin. It has had times of abandonment, but now, thanks to the reconstructions, it is in excellent condition and works as a museum, with various archaeological objects, even very rare.

The Temple of Serapis in Pozzuoli is one of the most famous monuments in the entire ancient world. Also known as the Macellum of Pozzuoli, that is, the public market of the Roman city. The Monument is special and on several columns we can find traces of molluscs because, for a certain period of time, it was found below sea level.

The Archaeological Museum of the Phlegraean Fields is located in the municipality of Bacoli. It was established in 1993, and is located inside the Aragonese fortress, which is located south of the Gulf of Baia. The Museum houses a large collection of prehistoric archaeological objects.

The Amphitheater was built in the first century AD by the architects themselves of the famous Colosseum. Its size is large (149 x 116 m) and its complex structure included a porch, three arches, the arena, the cavea and the basement. It is one of the most important archaeological evidence of the area that tells a lot about the history of Pozzuoli. The monument is available to all interested parties.

The Aragonese Castle was built by Alfonso of Aragon at the end of the fifteenth century for the defense of the Gulf of Pozzuoli from the Moors. The building consists of a series of fortifications linked together. The castle has a strategic position that allows for a wide view that prevented the enemies from approaching. The castle of Baia is home to the Archaeological Museum of the Phlegraean Fields for its dominant position compared to the archaeological sites of the Phlegraean Campi.

The Sanctuary of San Gennaro was built between 1574 until 1580 and is one of the most important monuments. Over time, the building has been restored. The structure consists of two Tuscan columns. We also find the bust of San Gennaro. A legend is also linked to the bust.

The Terme di Agnano, are dating back to Greek times, but the ruins that we still find today, are purely Roman. Towards the end of the 19th century, the entire area was reconsidered, reevaluating the ancient sulphurous springs and those of therapeutic waters. In 1911 they were opened to the public. Over the years the structure has undergone various restorations and modifications, which have brought to light archaeological remains of the ancient Roman baths.

The Lower Tower or the so-called anti-Saracen Tower dates back to medieval times. It stands at Misero, which is a hamlet of the municipality of Bacoli, in the province of Naples. Near the Tower there are still ruins of barracks and fortifications, present since World War II. It had the function of protecting and supervising against the phenomenon of banditism. The building has architectural and decorative elements typical of the Middle Ages.

Campi Flegrei is one of the regional parks in Naples that was declared in the year 2003. The region comprises of more than 22 creators alongside gaseous emissions especially in its Solfatara creator. There are several phenomenas that characterize the region. For instance, the bradyseismic phenomena that are most clear at the Macellum.

The Museum of the Sea, based in the “Duke of Abruzzi” Nautical Institute of Naples, was founded in 1992, and is the only museum of the sea in Naples. The Museum consists of three rooms, that of ancient ships from the 18th to the 19th Century, the collection of Marine Machines from the '800 and finally the section of radio and radio navigation equipment.

The Museum of Human Anatomy in Naples is one of the most important museums in the world, located at the Institute of Human Anatomy. Recently reopened to the public, the museum was established between the end of the eighteenth century and the beginning of the nineteenth century, for educational functions. There is a section of normal anatomy and one of pathological anatomy.

For those who love soccer, you will have fun visiting Napoli FC during their home match at Stadio San Paolo. This team has done well to the higher levels especially the Champions League. Remember this is one of the best stadiums in Italy.

The walls were built by the Avalos family in 1500, like the well-known palace of Avalos (also called Castle), which in the 19th century became a prison and now can be seen only from the outside.

The City of Science is located in the city of Naples. It consists of an interactive science museum, a business incubator and a training center. The interactive science museum was destroyed by a fire on 4 March 2013, but it was reopened the next month with exhibitions in some spaces of the complex. The museum will have to be rebuilt as soon as possible, being one of the most important points of attraction in the city.

The origins of the Abbey date back to the eleventh century, but its architecture, following destruction and reconstructions, dates back to the 16th century. Inside it is possible to admire paintings, sculptures and the precious altars, as well as the lower area that houses the Museum, the Ossuary and the library that houses ancient manuscripts.

Nisida is an islet that originates from volcanicity located in north of Naples around Cape Posillipo. Statistics reveal that those visitors who have happened to step at this islet have left smiling. It has a unique history concerning its monastery.

Parco Virgiliano is located next to Salario. It is best known in terms of bars. Many people refer to it as bar Parco Virgiliano. It is a tourist attraction that motivates tour guides to love their work since their audience enjoys what they see.

The tombs of two great poets is located in Naples. The tombs can be visited inside a park dedicated to the Latin poet. The park was built in 1930 and near the entrance there is a tombstone of 1668 made by Pedro of Aragon where the surrounding landscape is magnificent.

It is an important historic building of Naples in the Vomero park. The place has landmarks such as Oteum historical site and the Speciality Museums besides Neapolius Club used for sporting activities.

The Duke of Martina Museum since 1927 has been located in the Villa Floridiana in Naples. The Museum houses over 6000 works of Western and Eastern manufacturing, dating back to the period from the 12th to the 19th century. It is one of the largest collections of decorative arts, and divided over three floors, the section of oriental art objects has recently been opened, including the fine collection of Chinese porcelain dating back to the Ming and Qing times.

The Basilica Dell' Incoronata Madre Del Buon Consiglio is one of the best points to gain spiritual interests. It is known for its colossal church with peculiar paintings, stories about end of cholera in the area and the volcanic ash that resulted into torrential rain that destroyed lives of people and plants. It is also important for one to take note of the Sister Maria di Geshu who did note stay to see the church grow has her traces at the point.

Italy is well known in tunnels on extensive scale, ambulatories of the highest order, and gratifying chapels and cubicles. The best of all these are located at The Catacombs of San Gennaro. The point has underground Christian sites for burial ceremonies. The place is open from Monday to Saturday staring from 10.00 to 17.00 hours while people may access the services on Sundays from 10.00 to 13.00 p.m.

This is a cardinal titular church that puts forth faith to Virgin Mary. It is characterized by a portrait of Mary and a holy shrine. In addition, the church has been devoted to conversion of England.

A wonderful Art Gallery with a permanent exhibition of the Galleria Farnese on the main floor, the Royal Apartments, the Neapolitan Gallery on the second floor, the collection ofnineteenth-century and contemporary art at the third level. Worth visiting!

La Fenestella was born as a trattoria at the beginning of the century and took its name from a window of the restaurant in which Carolina looked out, made famous by the song “A Marechiaro” by Salvatore Di Giacomo. It is currently a restaurant run by the grandchildren of the founder, Vittorio and Davide Anastasio.

Castel Sant'Elmo is a medieval castle, located on the Vomero hill, in Naples. This building was the first castle by extension of the city. The castle has always been a very coveted possession. From the location of this beautiful castle you can the gulf and the streets that lead to the city. Today the castle is home to various temporary exhibitions, fairs and events.

The Pignatelli villa was erected in 1826. In 1952, Princess Rosina Pignatelli donated to the Italian State the villa and her art collection, provided that the museum that would have founded bears the name of her husband, Diego Aragona Pignatelli. The villa, inside it also houses the Museum of Carriages, with an interesting collection of Italian and French carriages dating from the end of the 1800s and the beginning of the '900.

Largo di San Martino is located in the Palazzo Certosa di San Martino. The building is located at the highest point of the Vomero hill and is currently home to the museum of San Martino. The tour of the museum can be completed by the beautiful terrace from which you can admire the panorama of the entire city.

The catacomb of the African S. Gaudioso, is thought to have arrived in Naples in 439 following the persecution of the Aryan king of the Generic Vandals. The peculiarity is the burial of the skulls of the deceased recessed in the walls of the ambulacrum. The interior of the catacomb has frescoes and mosaics dating from the 5th-6th century and also sculptures belonging to the time of the construction of the basilica.

The National Museum of San Martino was inaugurated in 1866, following the Unification of Italy, after the Charterhouse was declared a national monument. The rooms of the Charterhouse were intended to host the museum, at the behest of the archaeologist Giuseppe Fiorelli. The museum presents and documents aspects of society in various historical eras. It is divided into several sections, dedicated to theater, parties and costumes.

This place is located alongside Riviera di Chania 200 in Naples province. It has important sites such as Aurelio just near Villa Pignatelli, a museum, and Secret excursion for day tours among other features.

Villa Rosebery is a monumental complex located in the Posillipo district of Naples. The villa was built as a royal residence. In the scenic area known as the 'lookout', De Thurn had a private residence built, with a chapel and a garden, allocating the rest of the land for agricultural use. Today, it is one of the three official residences of the President of the Italian Republic.

The Anton Dohrn zoological station was founded in 1872 by the homonymous scientist. Today it is a public research body, and it is among the most important in the world in the fields of marine biology. The station contains more than 20,000 samples of marine fauna and a herbarium of the marine flora of the Gulf of Naples. In addition, the aquarium is the oldest in Europe and contains hundreds of species from the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The Capodimonte Astronomical Observatory was established in 1812 at the behest of King Joachim Murat. In the same structure there is also the headquarters of the Astronomical Museum of Capodimonte, which is composed of three important cores: the Museum of Astronomical Instruments, which contains a collection of dated instruments from the '800 to '900; the Bamberg Pavilion, dedicated to the precise measurement of time; the Repsold Pavilion, with the equatorial refracting telescope that is the emblem of the Naples Observatory.

Palazzo Sanfelice is a monumental palace located in the city of Naples. The palace was built between 1724 and 1726, by the architect Ferdinando Sanfelice. The building consists of two distinct parts, unified by the facade. In the 18th century, the main floor was decorated with frescoes by Francesco Solimena, while the private Chapel had four statues coming from the school of Giuseppe Sanmartino, works that are not found today more.

Trinità dei Pellegrini of Naples, is located in the historic center of the city, in via Portamedina. The Church of the Santissima dates back to the sixteenth century and was built at the behest of the Jerosolimito knight Fabrizio Pignatelli of Monteleone. Later it was entrusted to the Brotherhood of the Most Holy Trinity.

The Art Museum of the Pagliara Foundation was founded in 1947, at the behest of Maria Antonietta and Adelaide Pagliara, donating the artistic heritage of his brother Rocco to the Institute Sister Orsola Benincasa. The Museum houses a majestic collection of paintings, prints, porcelain, glass, ceramics, furniture, musical scores. These pieces belong to the period between the 16th and 19th centuries.

Palazzo Cariati is a monumental palace in Naples that is located between the Piazzetta Cariati and the Corso Vittorio Emanuele. The palace represents an example of civil architecture of the Neapolitan Renaissance. On the second floor, there are frescoes, majolica floors and tapestries. Today, the “Giovanni Pontano” institute is located in the building.

The Archaeological Museum, located in Palazzo Ludovico il Moro of Biagio Rossetti, presents the findings from the necropolis of Spina and documents the close relations between the Spineti, the Etruscan, and the Greeks.

The Palazzo Cellammare in Naples is an ancient noble palace. The palace was erected in the sixteenth century by Giovanni Francesco Carafa, according to the sixteenth-century characteristics. The building has an eighteenth-century façade, while the door is in Baroque style. Inside, you can admire the frescoes of great artists such as Giacomo del Po, Pietro Bardellino, Giacinto Diano and Fedele Fischetti.

The Ruffo Palace in Bagnara is an ancient building located in Piazza Dante in Naples. It was built in the 17th century. In the first half of the nineteenth century the palace was restored by Vincenzo Salomone and hosted the literary Basilio Puoti. The façade was decorated in the 16th century style. Inside, there is a neoclassical statue, testimony to the ancient refinement of the palace.

Neapolitans believe this it is the most beautiful theater in town. Opened in 1878, it presents a rich and harmonious architecture. Do not miss: the little theater of the rehearsal room and the Auditorium. Worth a visit!

The Spanish Palace is a monumental palace in Naples. The palace was designed and built, in 1738, by Ferdinando Sanfelice for the Marquis of Poppano. The architecture of the palace is in Neapolitan Baroque style. Of great interest is the open staircase to the courtyard that presents the typical element of Rococo.

It’s a favourite street from Naples. Built by the homonymous king, who ordered the opening as the axis of expansion of the city.