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Underground Naples: A Journey Through Millennia

Unearth 2400 years of history beneath the streets of Naples. Explore ancient aqueducts, Roman ruins, and WWII shelters.

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Explore the hidden world beneath Naples, a network of tunnels, aqueducts, and chambers dating back to ancient Greek times. Discover Roman engineering, WWII bomb shelters, and a unique perspective on the city's layered history.

A brief summary to Underground Naples

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and stairs.
  • The underground temperature is cooler than above ground, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
  • Book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines.
  • Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of the site.
  • If you're claustrophobic, be aware that some sections of the tour involve narrow passages, but alternative routes are available.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Underground Naples is located in Piazza San Gaetano, in the heart of Naples' historic center. From Via dei Tribunali, a main thoroughfare, simply walk towards Piazza San Gaetano. The entrance is easily identifiable by blue and white flags. The ticket office is located at Piazza San Gaetano, 68.

  • Public Transport

    Piazza San Gaetano is well-served by public transport. * **Metro:** Take Line 1 to Museo, Dante, or Duomo stations. From there, it's approximately an 8-10 minute walk to Piazza San Gaetano. A single metro ticket costs €1.30. * **Bus:** Several bus lines stop near Piazza San Gaetano, including 101, 168, 184, 3, and R2. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information. Bus tickets cost around €1.30 - €1.70.

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Discover more about Underground Naples

Beneath the bustling streets of Naples lies a hidden city, a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers known as Underground Naples (Napoli Sotterranea). This subterranean world offers a fascinating glimpse into over 2,400 years of history, from the ancient Greeks to World War II. The story begins in the 4th century BCE when the Greeks quarried volcanic tuff stone to build Neapolis, the 'new city'. These excavations created vast cavities that were later transformed by the Romans into an intricate system of aqueducts and cisterns, providing fresh water to the city. The Romans also constructed structures such as a marketplace and a theater. Over the centuries, the underground network was expanded and repurposed. During World War II, the tunnels served as air-raid shelters, protecting the city's residents from devastating bombings. Today, visitors can still see remnants of this era, including furniture and graffiti left behind by those who sought refuge. Exploring Underground Naples is a unique and unforgettable experience. Tours typically begin at Piazza San Gaetano, in the heart of Naples' historic center. Descend 136 steps to discover Greek cisterns and medieval tunnels. Highlights include the ancient Greek aqueducts, the remains of a Roman theater (used by Emperor Nero), and the War Museum. The tunnels and subterranean storage systems reach a depth of up to 40 meters (approximately 130 feet) beneath the city's surface. The temperature underground is several degrees cooler than outdoors, so dress accordingly. Comfortable footwear is recommended, as the tour involves some gentle slopes and steps.

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