Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Historical site · Nápoles, Campânia
Napoli Sotterranea
Guided tour through the tunnels and cisterns carved into the tuff beneath the historic center, used as an aqueduct in Antiquity and as an air-raid shelter in World War II.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Napoli Sotterranea
Beneath the historic center there is another city, dug into the tuff, the yellowish volcanic rock on which Naples was built. The Greeks quarried stone there for the walls and temples, and the Romans turned the cavities into cisterns for an aqueduct that supplied the city for centuries.
The main entrance for the visit is on the Piazza San Gaetano, on the Via dei Tribunali. The route descends about 40 meters, passes through galleries and cisterns, and includes a narrow, candle-lit section that can be skipped by anyone who feels uncomfortable in tight spaces.
During World War II the tunnels served as shelters from air raids, and you can still see inscriptions and objects left by residents. The tour also goes through neighborhood houses built over the remains of the Roman theatre of Neápolis, where, according to tradition, the emperor Nero performed.
Visits are guided and depart at fixed times, with groups in Italian and in English.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour and a half, counting the underground section and the stretch of the Roman theatre.
Best time
Any time of day; in summer the cool temperature underground is a relief. Arrive a little before your group's scheduled time.
How to get there
It's on the Piazza San Gaetano, on the Via dei Tribunali. Metro Line 1, Dante station, or Line 2, Piazza Cavour station, then walk through the historic center.
Tip
Bring a light jacket: down there the temperature stays cool year-round. Not recommended for those with claustrophobia or difficulty with stairs.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Napoli Sotterranea
Is the visit guided?
Yes. Groups depart at fixed times, in Italian and English. Check times before you go.
Can people with claustrophobia take the visit?
There is a very narrow section, lit by candlelight, that can be skipped. Even so, the visit involves stairs and low galleries.
Do I need special clothing?
No, but a light jacket and closed shoes help, because the environment is humid and cool.