Exploring the Ancient Ruins of Pompeii with Family

Neapolitan Dreams: Royal Palaces and Opera Houses

Today was a day filled with the echoes of kings and the melodies of maestros. Klaus and I, along with the family, embarked on a journey through Naples, exploring the opulent Royal Palace of Caserta and the legendary San Carlo Theatre. It was a day where history and art intertwined, leaving us utterly enchanted.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Todisco. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our adventures. With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Royal Palace of Caserta.


Explore the Royal Palace of Caserta, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing exquisite baroque architecture and stunning gardens, perfect for history lovers.

The Royal Palace of Caserta is truly a sight to behold. As we approached, its massive façade seemed to stretch endlessly, a testament to the ambition and power of the Bourbon kings. Commissioned by Charles of Bourbon in 1750, the palace was designed to rival Versailles, and it certainly lives up to the comparison. The scale of the palace is simply breathtaking; it's one of the largest palaces in the world! We wandered through the seemingly endless rooms, each more lavishly decorated than the last. The ceilings were adorned with intricate frescoes, the walls lined with priceless artworks, and the floors covered in exquisite marble. I could almost hear the whispers of courtiers and the rustle of silk gowns as we walked through the royal apartments.

Klaus, with his archaeological background, was in his element, pointing out architectural details and sharing historical anecdotes. He explained how Luigi Vanvitelli, the architect, masterfully blended Italian and French styles to create this unique masterpiece. I was particularly captivated by the Palatine Chapel, a stunning example of Neoclassical design. Its elegant simplicity provided a welcome contrast to the opulent grandeur of the rest of the palace.

To walk through these halls is to step back in time, to witness the splendor and ambition of a bygone era.

Of course, no visit to Caserta would be complete without exploring the Royal Park. Stretching for kilometers behind the palace, the park is a verdant oasis of fountains, gardens, and woodlands. We strolled along the central avenue, admiring the cascading waterfalls and the meticulously manicured lawns. The Fountain of Diana and Actaeon was particularly impressive, its sculptures depicting the mythical scene with dramatic flair. I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility as we wandered through the park, a world away from the bustling city of Naples. I made a mental note to try growing some of the local herbs in my own garden back in Heidelberg; a little piece of Italy to bring home with me.

After a morning of royal immersion, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Ristorante Donna Franca, a charming establishment known for its authentic Neapolitan cuisine. The aroma of fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic wafted through the air as we stepped inside. We shared a selection of local specialties, including spaghetti alle vongole and pizza margherita. The food was simple, yet bursting with flavor, a true taste of Italy. Klaus, ever the wine enthusiast, ordered a bottle of local Falanghina, which perfectly complemented our meal.

With our appetites satisfied, we made our way to Naples to visit the San Carlo Theatre. As a librarian with a passion for history, I was eager to explore this iconic opera house, one of the oldest and most prestigious in the world. Built in 1737, decades before Milan's La Scala, the San Carlo has hosted some of the greatest names in opera and ballet.


Explore the San Carlo Theatre in Naples, an iconic opera house offering exquisite performances and a glimpse into Italy's rich cultural heritage.

Stepping inside the theatre was like entering another world. The opulent interior, with its red velvet seats, gilded balconies, and soaring ceiling, exuded an air of elegance and grandeur. I could almost hear the echoes of past performances, the soaring voices of legendary singers, and the thunderous applause of captivated audiences. The theatre is built in a horseshoe shape and has amazing sound quality.

We took a guided tour of the theatre, learning about its rich history and its many famous performers. Our guide shared fascinating anecdotes about the theatre's past, including its role in the Neapolitan revolution of 1799. Apparently, an ode to freedom was performed on the stage, igniting the enthusiasm of the revolutionary audience. It's incredible to think that this theatre has been a stage for both artistic expression and political upheaval.

As we stood in the royal box, I imagined what it must have been like to attend a performance in the 18th century, surrounded by royalty and aristocracy. The San Carlo has always been a symbol of Naples' status as a great European capital. It was fascinating to learn that the theatre was rebuilt in the 19th century after a fire, and that it was the first theatre in Italy to reopen after the Second World War.

After our theatrical adventure, we decided to unwind with a drink at Meet café Sala Interna Wine Bar. The cozy atmosphere and extensive wine list provided the perfect setting for reflection on our day. We sampled a few local wines, savoring the flavors of the Campania region. It was the perfect way to relax and enjoy each other's company after a day of sightseeing.


Experience authentic Italian wines and delightful bites at Sala Interna Wine Bar in the heart of Pompei, a must-visit for every traveler.

For dinner, we chose Ristorante Spinelli Bistrot, a charming restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Neapolitan dishes. The menu featured a variety of creative and innovative dishes, showcasing the region's fresh, seasonal ingredients. I opted for the seafood risotto, while Klaus chose the lamb ragu. Both dishes were exquisitely prepared and beautifully presented. The perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Spinelli Bistrot in Pompei, where tradition meets contemporary culinary artistry.

As we walked back to our accommodation, Diana Inn Accommodations, under the starlit Neapolitan sky, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared today. From the royal grandeur of Caserta to the theatrical splendor of the San Carlo, Naples had truly captivated us. Tomorrow, we visit the Pompeii Ruins and the House of the Tragic Poet. I am excited to see what stories these ruins hold, and to delve even deeper into the history of this fascinating region. I am so glad that we decided to take this trip with family, and create memories that will last a lifetime.


Experience comfort and convenience at Diana Inn Accommodations, perfectly located in the heart of Pompei, ideal for exploring ancient ruins and natural wonders.

I must remember to buy sunscreen and a portable phone charger for our final day of the trip. These are two items I had forgotten to pack, and they would both be useful tomorrow, especially with the summer sun.

It's funny how travel can bring history to life. As a librarian, I spend my days surrounded by books and manuscripts, but there's nothing quite like experiencing history firsthand. To walk in the footsteps of kings and artists, to see the world through their eyes, is a truly transformative experience. And to share these experiences with my family makes them all the more special. Perhaps I will write a book when I return to Heidelberg. I have so many stories to tell!