Posillipo: Naples' Coastal Gem

• HelloCiao
  [chow]
• GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ar-ri-ve-der-chi]
• YesSì
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [per fa-vo-re/pre-go]
• Thank youGrazie
  [gra-tsyeh]
• Excuse me/SorryMi scusi/Scusa
  [mee skoo-zee/skoo-za]
• How are you?Come stai?
  [ko-meh sty]
• Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [be-ne/e too]
• Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [par-lee een-gleh-zeh]
• I don't understandNon capisco
  [non ka-pee-skoh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vor-ray ve-de-re eel me-nu, per fa-vo-re]
• I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non man-joh kar-ne]
• Cheers!Salute!
  [sa-lu-te]
• I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vor-ray pa-ga-re, per fa-vo-re]

• Help!Aiuto!
  [ai-u-to]
• Go away!Vattene!
  [vat-te-ne]
• Call the Police!Chiama la Polizia!
  [kyah-ma la po-lee-tsyah]
• Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [kyah-ma oon dot-to-re]
• I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee so-no per-so]
• I'm illSto male
  [sto ma-le]

• I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vor-ray com-pra-re]
• I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [sto so-lo gwar-dan-do]
• How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwan-to kos-ta]
• That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh tro-ppo ka-ro]
• Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwah-ee ab-ba-sa-re eel pret-zoh]

• What time is it?Che ora è?
  [ke o-ra eh]
• It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-na]
• Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [so-no le dyeh-chee eh me-tsa]
• MorningMattina
  [mat-tee-na]
• AfternoonPomeriggio
  [po-me-ree-joh]
• EveningSera
  [se-ra]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
• TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
• TomorrowDomani
  [do-ma-nee]
• 1Uno
  [oo-no]
• 2Due
  [doo-eh]
• 3Tre
  [treh]
• 4Quattro
  [kwat-tro]
• 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
• 6Sei
  [say]
• 7Sette
  [set-te]
• 8Otto
  [ot-to]
• 9Nove
  [no-veh]
• 10Dieci
  [dyeh-chee]

• Where's a/the...?Dov'è un/il...?
  [do-veh oon/eel]
• What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwal eh leen-dee-ree-tso]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwah-ee mo-star-mee (soo-la map-pa)]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwan-do pas-sa eel pros-si-mo (ow-to-bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon bee-lyet-to (per)]

Posillipo's history can be traced back to ancient times, notably during the Greek colonization of Southern Italy around the 8th century BC. The area was known as 'Pausilypon' which translates to 'a place of rest'. It served as a retreat for wealthy Romans who built luxurious villas overlooking the Bay of Naples, taking advantage of the stunning views and mild climate.

During the Roman Empire, Posillipo flourished as an elite residential area. It was home to notable figures, including the poet Virgil, whose estate is believed to have been located here. The remnants of ancient Roman structures, such as the Villa of Pausilypon, showcase the region's architectural grandeur and its importance in Roman society.

The fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century led to a decline in Posillipo's prominence. The area transitioned into a quieter, rural landscape, marked by the rise of monasteries and small churches. The medieval period saw a shift in focus from opulent villas to simpler ecclesiastical architecture.

The Renaissance marked a revival for Posillipo as artists and intellectuals returned to the area, attracted by its natural beauty. The construction of palaces and gardens, such as the celebrated Palazzo Donn'Anna, reflected the era's artistic spirit. The coastline and scenic vistas became a canvas for the creative minds of the time.

The 20th century brought significant changes to Posillipo, as urbanization transformed the neighborhood into a bustling residential area. The establishment of new infrastructure, including roads and public transportation, facilitated access to the area, making it a desirable location for affluent families. Cultural institutions, such as the Villa Comunale, were developed, enriching the local cultural landscape.

Today, Posillipo is known for its cultural heritage and picturesque views. The neighborhood is home to several important historical sites, including the Parco Virgiliano, which celebrates the legacy of Virgil. Posillipo continues to attract tourists seeking both relaxation and a connection to Naples' rich history, further solidifying its status as a cultural gem within the city.

Posillipo is easily accessible from central Naples. You can take the Metro Line 2 to the Mergellina station, then transfer to bus line 140 or 151, which will take you directly into Posillipo. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available and provide a convenient way to reach the neighbourhood. For those coming from Capodichino Airport, shuttle buses or taxis can take you to your destination in around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Posillipo is best explored on foot, as many of its attractions are within walking distance. Public buses (lines 140, 151, and 152) run frequently, connecting Posillipo to the rest of Naples. Bicycles are also a great way to navigate the area, with several bike rental shops available. For stunning views, consider walking along the Via Posillipo promenade. Taxis are available for longer distances or if you prefer not to walk.

Posillipo is generally considered a safe neighbourhood for tourists. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially in less crowded areas. Avoid walking alone at night on secluded streets and keep an eye on your belongings to prevent petty theft. While the main tourist areas are safe, the nearby Quartieri Spagnoli and parts of Sanità should be approached with caution due to higher crime rates targeting tourists.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The local hospitals and clinics can provide immediate care. It is advisable to carry travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available throughout Posillipo for over-the-counter medications. For non-life-threatening issues, local medical facilities can assist.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites such as the Church of Santa Maria del Parto. Do not wear beachwear outside of the beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, including covering your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood dishes and enjoy a Neapolitan coffee. Don't rush through meals; dining is a social experience.

To experience Posillipo like a local, take a stroll along the Lungomare promenade and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples. Visit the local markets for fresh produce and regional delicacies. Engage with the locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories. Don't miss the chance to visit the Parco Virgiliano, which offers panoramic views and is a favorite spot for locals. Lastly, try to visit during the sunset for a truly magical experience.