The underground city of Naples is a network of passageways, caves, tunnels and subterranean spaces located deep beneath the old streets. These spaces were excavated in ancient times - originally as water supply systems, the stonemasons and Romans mined tuff (volcanic rock) here, gradually creating a vast labyrinth.
History of the Naples Underground
The history of the underground goes back to Greek and Roman times. The Romans used the underground passages to bring water and escape from the city during wars. During the Middle Ages and modern times, the underground served as storage areas, bomb shelters (especially during World War II) or even as burial grounds. In some parts there are remains of early Christian catacombs.
What can you see?
A visit to the underground city is like a journey into another dimension. Here you will see the ancient water cisterns and tanks that supplied the city, the tufa tunnels with the typical roundedceilings, catacombs and chapels with murals, the remains of medieval cellars and wartime shelters. The underground has unique acoustics.
There are 2 sites open to the public today:
- The Catacombs of St. Januarius (San Gennaro) - a rather spacious necropolis with several thousand burial chambers. It is located near the Capodimonte Palace. The entrance is opposite the Basilica of St. Januarius.
- Catacombs of St. Gaudioso (San Gaudioso) - located directly below the Naples Cathedral, they are smaller and more cramped, but even here you can admire up to several hundred burial places.
Practical information
Tours of the underground city are led by experienced guides who will take you through all the sights and share fascinating stories. Advance booking is recommended as tour capacity is limited.
Naples' underground is literally a world unto itself - beneath the surface of the bustling city lies history, mystique and adventure. If you ever make a trip to Naples, don't miss this unique attraction!
