best underground tour napoli

Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea)

Tickets napoli sotterranea, galleria borbonica & la neapolis sotterrata.

Beneath the ancient city of Naples is an extensive system of caves, passages and catacombs. Naples underground tours: Napoli Sotteranea tickets, Galleria Borbonica or Neapolis Sotterrata.

The Naples Underground Tours

Under the lively historic center of Naples is an extensive network of streets and squares that partly was built by the Romans and Greeks and carved out of the tuff. If you want you can visit with guided Naples Underground Tours the "underworld" in several places in Naples. 40 meters below street level and excellently preserved networks of hundreds of kilometers. You will see caves, tunnels and underground passages during your tour. The underground routes are very accessible and often well lit. Book a guide and let yourself be taken back in time. There is a lot to explore in these underground temples. Well-known areas and main tours of this underground network in Naples are Napoli Sotterranea , my personal favorite being the Galleria Borbonica and finally La Neapolis Sotterrata . It is important that in most places it is necessary that you have booked your tour in advance. Read more about the three tour options:

Option 1: Napoli Sotterranea

The Napoli Sotterranea is an official route through the underground tunnels of Naples and is the most visited of all routes. You will find a completely different world 40 meters below the streets of Naples, but with a deep connection with the upper world. The following sights can be found on the route of the Napoli Sotterranea tour:

• The Greek Roman Aqueduct : After descending 136 steps you will find the Greek Roman Aqueduct. The area you visit is initially well lit, but in some parts it is too dark. So you can continue the rest of the route with a candle or a flashlight to view the underground water basins. It is a special experience to move through the very narrow corridors of the aqueduct and not recommended for people with claustrophobia.
• The Roman Theater : Also on this Naples underground tour you will visit a typical Neapolitan house, also called "layer". The reason for this is that it is located at the street level of the city. Once inside, a hatch opens to the ancient Roman theater of Neapolis, where Emperor Nero had a private dressing room.
• Summa Cavea : Recently the Napoli Sotterranea has been expanded with a new discovery, Summa Cavea. It is another part of the Roman theater which houses a permanent exhibition of 'Scarabattoli'. Here you will see characteristic settings of beautiful handmade sculptures in glass display cases.

Optie 2: Galleria Borbonica (Bourbon Tunnel)

During the war period from 1939 to 1943, the tunnel of Galleria Borbonica served as an air raid shelter for the people. About 5,000 to 10,000 Neapolitans sought refuge in the tunnel. Many of these people lost their homes to the bombings of the Germans and were even forced to live in the air raid shelters after the war. Today, the tunnel is full of debris and serves as an exhibition space. You will find many antique cars and motorcycles, special objects and old hiding places.

Optie 3: La Neapolis Sotterrata (San Lorenzo Maggiore)

The ancient La Neapolis Sotterrata was originally founded by the Greek settlers in the year 470 BC. Within this ancient city, the monumental complex of San Lorenzo Maggiore occupies a special place. A place that previously housed the agora (vital space of the Greek city, later the Roman Forum). Various excavations have made it possible to identify superimposed layers. In this way, the visitor can see the different settlements that have succeeded each other over time. From Greek to Roman times, from the Middle Ages to modern times.

La Neapolis Sotterrata can be found in Piazza San Gaetano near the church San Lorenzo Maggiore . Here it is possible to discover this underground world on your own, but it is also possible to hire a guide. An extra tip is to take a look above the ground in the Basilica San Paolo Maggiore near Piazza San Gaetano. Here stood a temple dedicated to Castor and Pollux, the mythical sons of Greek god Zeus. Unfortunately, the temple has been destroyed, but you will find two columns of the temple.

Video: Impression of Naples Underground

Where are the underground attractions of naples.

The map below shows the three most visited Naples underground areas (1 = Napoli Sotteranea, 2 = Galleria Borbonica, 3 = Neapolis Sotterrata)

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Naples Underground: Complete Guide to Aqueducts, Bomb Shelters & Catacombs

May 30, 2023

Bring your walking shoes and a light jacket and get ready to head underground! Underneath the streets of Naples lies a labyrinth of ancient aqueducts, catacombs , and bomb shelters. It’s a hidden city worth exploring.

Naples has been continuously occupied for over 2,000 years. The current city is like a stone tiramisu, with layers upon layers of history. Use this article to help choose and book your tour, and get a fresh new perspective on the city. We’ll also share some great spots to eat and drink around each site in case you work up an appetite.

There are plenty of great ways to explore Naples underground. Photo credit: Associazione Culturale Borbonica Sotterranea

Table of Contents

Best Ways to See Subterranean Naples

Napoli sotterranea piazza san gaetano.

There are two competing tours called Napoli Sotterranea. Why? Naples has so much to see belowground, and the name Napoli Sotterranea means simply, “Naples underground.” Makes sense that there’s a duplicate!

This first tour, arguably more well-known, starts from the heart of the historical center in Piazza San Gaetano, next to the Basilica di San Paolo Maggiore. The underground tour will take you on a journey through the history of the aqueducts from the Roman times to WWII.

During the war, the abandoned tunnels were used as bomb shelters for many people, and wartime artifacts help paint a vivid picture. The tour ends with a fascinating look at the ancient underground Teatro di Nerone. There’s often a line, but you can book tickets online at a premium.

Insider’s Tip: The baroque basilica of San Paolo Maggiore is worth a peek if you have the time – and it’s free to enter.

Prepare for goosebumps as you descend into Naples underground. Photo credit: Justin Ennis

Where to ear nearby

Hungry after (or before) the tour? The entrance to the tour is close to one of the best pizzerias in Naples, called Gino e Toto Sorbillo . To skip the line, go early—12pm lunch or 6:30pm dinner—or be prepared for a wait.

There’s also a great vegan restaurant nearby, Sbuccia e Bevi ( Via Duomo, 238 ) that serves up delicious vegan lunches and desserts.

Napoli Sotterranea Quartieri Spagnoli

This underground tour focuses on the ancient greek aqueducts, some of which date back to 400 BCE. It goes under the bustling neighborhood of Quartieri Spagnoli, and starts from the famous Gambrinus coffee shop. Get there early to grab an espresso at the 19th century spot, which also happens to make one of the best coffees in the city.

Once you head underground, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a parallel world of caverns and old cisterns. A highlight of this particular tour is well-preserved graffiti from WWII, a time when locals camped inside to escape the bombings.

Discovering underground cisterns on an underground tour of Naples is an incredible experience.  Photo credit: Associazione Culturale Borbonica Sotterranea

Back above ground, you’ll find yourself in an area rich with quality bars—grab a tagliere (cured meat and cheese plate) from Antico Grottino ( Via Sergente Maggiore, 29 ), a craft beer on tap from NaBeer ( Via Sergente Maggiore, 39 ), or a glass of local wine from Spuzzule ( Via Sergente Maggiore, 54 ).

If you’re hungry, try to nab a spot at the tiny salumi shop and restaurant Da Maria ( Vico S. Anna di Palazzo, 31 ).

Galleria Borbonica

The Galleria Borbonica was dug out in the 1850’s as an escape tunnel for King Ferdinand II in case of riots. The tunnel these days offers not only daytime tours, but also nighttime musical events.  One of their most memorable event series is called Concert in the Dark, where musicians play a classical concert in a spacious but pitch black cavern. If you’re not scared of the dark, we highly recommend it.

The Bourbon Tunnel (as it’s known in English) has four different tours to choose from, all of which can be booked online. The standard tunnel tour is one of the most accessible in this list for people with reduced mobility. The Via delle Memorie tour is more in depth, with a stop at a beautiful restored cistern underground. For those feeling a bit adventurous, sign up for the Adventure Tour or the Speleo Tour Light, which explore the complex aqueduct system. Make sure to check the entrance when you book, because the meeting point isn’t the same for all tours.

For almost three decades after WWII, the Bourbon Tunnel of Naples was used as a police car pound. Photo credit: Associazione Culturale Borbonica Sotterranea

Standout places to eat near Galleria Borbonica are Classico , an upscale contemporary Italian eatery, and Pescheria Mattucci ( Vico Belledonne a Chiaia, 27 ), a tiny, high-quality fishmonger and restaurant.

Le Catacombe di San Gennaro

The Catacombs of San Gennaro are thought to have origins dating back to the 2nd century CE. This incredible space represents one of the earliest sites of Christian practices in Southern Italy . It houses the remains of the first patron saint of Naples, Sant’Agrippino, but also once housed the bones of San Gennaro, its namesake. San Gennaro became the official patron saint of the city in 472 CE, but Naples actually has 52 recognized patron saints!

The site is completely accessible for people with reduced mobility, and has tactile models and signs for visually impaired visitors. This site is very slightly outside of the historical center, so we recommend taking a bus from the National Museum . It’s worth it to see the beautifully illuminated and restored catacombs.

The San Gennaro Catacombs are wonderfully spooky – and incredibly spacious. Photo credit: Rosino

Unfortunately, the Catacombe di San Gennaro is located in a bit of a food and drink desert. We recommend taking the bus back down to the National Museum for refreshments. Order a specialty coffee or a bite to eat at picturesque Lazzarelle , a women-owned coffee house. Or opt for a delicious gluten-free pastry at Leopoldo Cafebar . Prefer a sit-down lunch? Vitto Pitagorico ( Piazza Museo, 15 ) serves up awesome vegan and vegetarian fare.

Le Catacombe di San Gaudioso

The area of Sanità in Naples got its name from the presence of saintly tombs under the city. The catacombs of San Gaudioso are nestled under the neighborhood and still preserve the feeling and traditions of early Christianity. It began as a cemetery in the early 400s CE, and grew in popularity during that century after St. Gaudosius was buried there in the 450s. St. Gaudosius was exiled from Tunisia, and is a representation of the historical multiculturalism of Naples.

The underground Catacombs of San Gaudioso feature early Christian iconography – such as fish, the lamb, and grapes with branches – dating from the 5th and 6th Centuries. Photo credit: Fabien Bièvre-Perrin

One of the morbid tales that are told on these catacomb tours is the practice of draining the dead. This was a practice of cleaning a dead person’s bones before burial, but we’ll leave the details to the tour guide. The catacombs of San Gaudioso are one of nine known catacombs under the city, but only three of those have been restored and are open. The others lay abandoned. Creepy!

You’d never guess that the Catacombs of San Gaudioso lay directly under the main alter of the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità. Photo credit: Graeme Churchard

If you worked up an appetite during the macabre tour, the vibrant Sanità neighborhood is home to some delicious places to eat and drink. Isabella De Cham Pizza Fritta ( Via Arena della Sanità, 27 ) is a women-owned business that serves up mouth-watering fried pizza.

Craving sweets? Head to Poppella , the original storefront of one of the best pastry shops in the city. Prefer a drink? Check out the welcoming Antica Cantina Sepe ( Via Vergini, 55 ) for a glass of wine.

by Chelsea Newman

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Naples Underground

The hidden city below Naples

Book online Naples Underground

Skip the line with priority admission

Visit the ancient aqueducts and Roman Theatre

Walk along excavations of tunnels and caverns by candlelight

Explore years of history with an expert tour guide

Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea) is one of the most popular attractions in Italy’s southern city of Naples. This underground route that includes everything from ancient Roman ruins and aqueducts to caverns used as bomb shelters during World War II provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of Naples that is compelling for both adults and younger travelers. The route is easily accessible and can be enjoyed by the entire family and even travelers who suffer from claustrophobia. Private tours of Naples Underground and underground tours in languages other than English and Italian can also be booked.

What is Naples Underground?

The ancient Greeks built much of their city here on the Bay of Naples with tuff stone that they extracted from underground, leaving behind caverns and tunnels. The Agorà (main square) once sat where the Basilica di San Lorenzo is now located.

The Romans expanded the city, adding a sewer system and underground aqueduct that transported water from springs near Serino to the city center.

During the Bourbon reign, Naples' ancient Roman aqueduct was expanded and the city became one of the first in Europe to provide potable water to residents' homes .

The underground tunnels and caverns dug out over the millennia were used as bomb shelters during WWII, and Neapolitans would head beneath the city to take cover during raids.

Today, in addition to being a popular tourist attraction, the Napoli Sotteranea site houses a number of scientific experiments, including underground gardens and seismic instruments to monitor any activity on Mt. Vesuvius.

Napoli Sotterranea - The Underground Tour from Via dei Tribunali

Departure point : Piazza San Gaetano, 68 (in the historic center of Naples) Hours : open daily; tours are offered in English at 10AM, noon, 2PM, 4PM, and 6PM. Duration : 90 minutes Tickets : EUR 10 for adults; children under 5 free; discount for children between 5 and 17 years of age

The Napoli Sotterranea (Underground Naples) guided tour begins at street level in Piazza San Gaetano , a cross street of Via dei Tribunali, in the heart of Naples' historic center (once known as Neapolis). At the entrance, there are 136 low and easy-to-navigate steps that take you 40 meters below the modern city. Here, you can admire caverns carved into the soft tuff stone in the fourth century and first used as cisterns for water; in the mid-20th century, these same rooms protected locals as air-raid shelters. The tour then passes the earthquake monitoring station to visit a number of ancient ruins, including burial catacombs. The walking tour takes about an hour to complete and the spaces are all quite large. There is one tight passage of underground tunnels that is about 10 meters in length, is lit only by candles, and leads to a cistern (once part of the Roman aqueduct system); visiting this portion of the route is optional and those who would rather avoid this enclosed space can sit it out on a nearby bench.

After the initial section, the tour continues with a visit to an ancient Greek-Roman theater . The Greco-Roman theater is accessed through a “secret hatch” hidden beneath the bed of a ground-floor apartment (traditional Neapolitan “basso” apartments) and is the remains of a performance space in the ancient city dating from Emperor Nero, as well as a number of canals dating from the time of the Bourbon reign and decorated with delightful majolica ceramics.

At the end of the tour, you can stop at the War Museum (Museo della Guerra) to admire documents and other artifacts from the Second World War.

Getting to Napoli Sotteranea

The Napoli Sotterranea tour beginning point is located in the historic center of the city where vehicular traffic is limited, so can only be reached on foot. The nearest metro station is Dante one line 1 (direction Piscinola). If you are arriving by car, park at the Duomo, Piazza Cavour, or Corso Umberto parking garages, which are all about a 10-minute walk from the entrance of Napoli Sotteranea.

Tips for Visiting Napoli Sotterranea

The route is not challenging and anyone can visit. If you are traveling with young children, opt for a baby carrier or backpack rather than a stroller as there are a number of steps; there is a baby stroller (pushchair) parking area at the entrance. The steps are wide, have a handrail, and are easy to navigate even for those who have to be cautious about stairs. The underground spaces are all quite large and are suitable even for visitors who suffer from claustrophobia. Visitors can decide to leave the tour at any point and return to ground level if they decide that they are not comfortable remaining underground. The temperatures inside Naples Underground remain quite cool all year round, so bring a light jacket or sweater in the summer months.

Restaurants near Naples Underground

Naples Underground is located in the heart of the old town and there are endless options for dining nearby. The most famous pizzerias in the city are just steps away, including names like Sorbillo and Di Matteo . Keep in mind that there are often long lines at these popular spots to get a table. Even if you don’t want to wait in line at one of the A-list pizza restaurants, you can opt for any pizzeria in the area and have a great pie. If you’d rather try traditional Neapolitan specialties like pasta and main courses, try Da Carmine and Campagnola . Otherwise, walk up into the Spanish Quarter for other landmark eateries like Nennella . For a satisfying bite on the go, stop at one of the many street food stands and order a "cuoppo" (paper cone of deep-fried seafood) or other snack to nibble while you explore. Street Food in Naples

If you enjoyed Naples Underground and would like to visit something similar, explore the Bourbon Tunnel, the Catacombs of San Gennaro , and the Catacombs of San Gaudioso . This is another “Naples Underground” attraction that begins beneath Piazza Trieste e Trento, next to Piazza Plebiscito and opposite the Royal Palace. Of course, you can also visit the ruins of Pompeii .

Other Underground Sites in Naples

La napoli sotterranea.

This underground site, which (somewhat confusingly), shares the same name as the main Naples Underground discussed above, begins from Piazza Trieste e Trento next to the central Piazza Plebiscito and just opposite the Royal Palace. The route snakes its way through a warren of tunnels directly beneath the heart of the centro storico, the Quartieri Spagnoli. The site is appropriate for all visitors.

The Bourbon Gallery (Galleria Borbonica)

This underground site was excavated by Frederick II of Bourbon and stretches from the Royal Palace to Piazza Vittoria near the seafront; it was constructed to provide the royal family an escape route in case of an uprising. There are a number of visitor routes to choose from, from the classic option that includes a stretch on a charming raft to the more adventurous option that includes a spelunking portion. There are different entrances depending on the route you choose: the Domenico Morelli parking area, Via Monte di Dio, or Vico del Grottone near Piazza Plebiscito. Tickets for the Bourbon Gallery (Galleria Borbonica)

La Neapolis Sotterranea

Beneath the spectacular Basilica of San Lorenzo and just steps from San Gregorio Armeno hide remains of the Greek and Roman city of Neapolis, the first inhabited settlement that grew to become present-day Naples. Venture underground to walk along an ancient road lined with the remains of shops like a bakery and butcher. The entrance is located in Piazza San Gaetano 316, a few steps from the classic route above. Visit the Complex of San Lorenzo Maggiore

The Catacombs of San Gennaro

Set in the Capodimonte neighborhood, these catacombs are named after the patron saint San Gennaro, who was buried here until his remains were moved to the city's cathedral. Visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro

The Catacombs of San Gaudioso

In the Sanità district, the underground areas beneath the Church of Santa Maria della Sanità house the remains of thousands of deceased Neapolitans. Visit the Catacombs of San Gaudioso

The Church and Museum of Santa Maria delle Anime del Purgatorio ad Arco:

You will immediately spot this church set along Via dei Tribunali by the skulls decorating the entrance. This was once the most important hub of the Neapolitan tradition of "anime pezzentelle", or souls trapped in Purgatory who needed prayers from the living to release them into paradise. You can see the skull of "Lucia", covered in a bridal veil and decorated with flowers; according to legend, she died shortly before her wedding day. The official Santa Maria delle Anime del Purgatorio ad Arco website

The Fontanelle Cemetery

One of the most recent catacombs this burial site was founded in the 16th century as a mass grave for victims of the plague and became used as a paupers' grave over the following centuries. Today it holds almost 40,000 skulls . The official Fontanelle Cemetery website

The Pausylipon and Seiano Grotto Archaeological Site

This ancient site in the Posillipo neighborhood contains a number of Roman ruins, including a theater and aqueduct. Visitors can access the site by passing through the Grotta di Seiano, a network of underground tunnels that were once used as part of the city's drainage system. The site is particularly spectacular due to the views over the Bay of Trentaremi and is a fascinating off-the-beaten-path site far from the tourist crowds. The official archaeological park website (Italian only)

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

How many different naples underground routes are there.

There are a number of underground routes in Naples that include tunnels, galleries, catacombs, and burial grounds. The most important is the Naples Underground cobered above, which begins near Via dei Tribunali. The second, known as "La Napoli Sotteranea", begins on Vico Sant'Anna near Piazza Trieste e Trento. Another interesting underground site is the Bourbon Tunnel (also known as the Bourbon Gallery), which has three entrances: Vico del Grottone (in Piazza Plebiscito), Via Monte di Dio, and near the D. Morelli parking area. There are a number of different routes inside the tunnel, from classic walking tours to speleological excursions for the more adventurous visitor.

How much to Naples Underground tickets cost?

Tickets to the Naples Underground cost €10; children under five years old enter free and there are discounts for visitors younger than 18. Other underground experiences cost between €10 and €20, depending on the length and type of tour (spelunking excursions generally cost more since they include specialized equipment).

Can I visit Naples Underground if I’m claustrophobic?

For the tour that begins from Piazza San Gaetano, there is only one portion of the route that is very tight and visitors can sit that portion out in a more spacious cavern. That said, the entire site is underground so can be a challenge despite the wide tunnels and chambers.

Do I need to book tickets to Naples Underground in advance?

Yes, Naples Underground is one of the most popular attractions in Naples and visitor numbers are limited each day, so it’s a good idea to book your ticket in advance so you can ensure your spot for a tour at the time and in the language you prefer. Book your Naples Underground ticket in advance

How long does the underground tour last?

t takes about an hour to complete the Naples Underground tour

Naples Underground

The only original itinerary recognized by Campania Region

Guided Tours – Naples Underground

Monday to Friday: 10.00 am, 12.00 pm, 2.00 pm,  4.30 pm.

Saturday, Sunday and holidays: 10.00 am, 12.00 pm, 2.00 pm, 4.30 pm

Tours for groups are available on every day of the week.

Association

The LAES, founded in 1988, aims to promote and disseminate knowledge of the Naples underground – that is an amazing historical and cultural – through the organization of guided tours, seminars and themed events.

Where we are – Naples Underground Tours

In the heart of Naples, in front of the Royal Palace, a short walk from the Galleria Umberto I, the Teatro San Carlo and the Maschio Angioino (Castel Nuovo). The meeting point, Piazza Trieste e Trento (bar Gambrinus) is easily accessible by public transport (underground, funicular and buses).

Naples underground entrance

In the underground of Naples lies a labyrinth of tunnels, tanks and cavities that form a real city which is the negative of the city on surface. The underground city spreads below the entire old town, its myths and legends are still alive in the imagination of all the neapolitans. The underground of Naples fascinates and impresses for the grandeur of the cavities, and therefore for the spaces, and for the maze of tunnels that cross each other for several miles below the streets and the buildings. Come with us into the insides of the city to discover the history and mysteries with the most fascinating tour of Naples, family and kid friendly.

CORONAVIRUS EMERGENCY

Methods of access and conduct of the tour.

• A maximum of 30 people per tour are allowed.
• To participate it is advisable to book through: – telephone Tel. 081400256 / Cell. 3339729875 – email [email protected] – at the entrance of Palazzo 52 in Vico Sant’Anna
• In the common areas and for the entire duration of the tour, the use of a mask and the respect of the social distance of one meter is mandatory.
• Before the tour, hand sanitization is mandatory (the association has a sanitizing dispenser)
• There are differentiated routes for entry and exit.
• Access will be denied to all those who have a body temperature of 37.5 ° C or higher

"Unique way to discover Naples"

"naples underground", "great tour of underground naples", "underground history", "excellent", "history is amazing".

Phone +39 342 394 6960    Whatsapp +39 342 394 6960

How to visit Napoli Sotterranea (underground Naples)

by Giovanna Esposito | Nov 2, 2022 | Travel Tips | 0 comments

Naples shows off a thousand shades of colour : sea, sky, meadows, and sun.

It is a city to be discovered , where every corner, every wall and every ‘sanpietrino’ (the little square cement blocks paving several ancient Neapolitan streets) tells a story.

However, the charm of the city is not only open air, as Naples’ subsoil can thrill as much as the historic buildings and museums.

Here there are hidden places talking about historic events and testifying Neapolitan people’s courage .

One of the most evocative routes, hidden in the sunlight, is Napoli Sotterranea (underground Naples), an urban substrate rich in history , one of a kind.

When in Naples, add it to your to-do-list , and experience a 2400-years journey from the Greek age to the modern era, 40 metres underground through tunnels and cisterns .

Di cosa parliamo in questo articolo

How to get to Underground Naples

Napoli sotterranea: history, the second world war, napoli sotterranea and the “pozzari”, the incorporated greek-roman theatre, napoli sotterranea: timetables and tickets.

The entrance is on Via dei Tribunali , right next to the Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore , in Piazza San Gaetano , in the heart of the city centre, and it is marked by white and blue flags.

Remember that this is the only Official Authorized Route of Napoli Sotterranea ; in fact, high safety standards are guaranteed.

From Napoliving rooms , get on at Università metro station (2 minutes walk) and get off at Piazza Dante stop (three stops away).

From there, walk towards Port’Alba and go straight on via San Pietro a Maiella .

After about 600 metres, you will find the entrance on your left.

This evocative itinerary was born around the IV century BC , when the Greeks began digging to extract the tuff necessary for the construction of Neapolis .

The excavations for the extraction reached up to Monte Somma , near the province of Volla , where they found water to connect with the cisterns.

Thanks to a series of long and narrow tunnels , which made the flow from one cistern to another faster, the underground became an aqueduct that supplied the city of Naples.

Later, during the Augustan era , the Romans expanded this aqueduct by 460 km 2 , with the water coming from the mouth of the Serino, in Avellino .

From there, it was channelled in 3 main directions :

• The area of ​​ Naples , Casalnuovo and Acerra ;
• The area of ​​ Ercolano , Pompeii and Stabia ;
• The Piscina Mirabilis in Bacoli , a tank of about 12,000 m 3 .

Unfortunately, in 1885 the contamination of water due to the cholera epidemic forced the Kingdom of Italy to decree the definitive closure of the aqueduct , and the undergrounds became an illegal landfill until 1942 .

In 1942 , during the Second World War , Naples needed anti-aircraft shelters , therefore the Genio Civile – a peripheral state body with a regional function – decided to use the underground, making some the necessary changes.

The first step was the construction of stairs , since the only access routes to the aqueduct were wells ; then, it took covering all the waste with soil .

This means that today the original floor of Napoli Sotterranea is 4 metres below .

Clearly, in order to prevent the bombs from entering them, all the wells were closed , except for the one under the notary archive of the Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore , meant to provide oxygen to the people who would take refuge underground.

The well was chosen according to the belief that churches were immune from bombing .

They were not!

Both the Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore and the Monastery of Santa Chiara were bombed . Unfortunately!

When you walk the itinerary of Napoli Sotterranea , you will also have the chance to admire artifacts from the time it was a refuge , such as toys and cots found at a depth of 36 metres .

Yes, no misreading: once inside, you go down from 36 to 40 metres!

When the underground was an aqueduct , both public and private cisterns were made.

The nobility used servants , called “ pozzari ”, to keep them clean.

Since pozzari were not paid for it, they started to take what they deserved by entering ad robbing the nobles’ houses through the wells .

This practice inspired the Neapolitan legend of the “Munaciello” , a little monk, a legendary spirit, who appears in homes and enjoys making things disappear .

You will arrive at a tunnel 50 cm wide and 50 m long , through which you can access the most beautiful cisterns , flooded to recall the original aqueduct .

The tour around these pools , from where the Neapolitan people drew water with a pot tied to a rope, is the original walkway used by pozzari .

Do know that the access to this area through the tunnel is done with candles , as it is very dark .

If you are claustrophobic , you can wait at the entrance of the tunnel and then rejoin the guide and the others as soon as they have finished visiting this area.

After this suggestive spot, you will arrive at the last cistern under the cloister of San Gregorio Armeno , once communicating with the church of San Lorenzo Maggiore , a place where monks and nuns could meet.

At the end of the tour you will be back to the surface, but wait, because your experience has not finished yet ! The second part of the guided tour is about to start, as you’re going to visit the remains of the incorporated Greek-Roman theatre .

The entrance is in Piazza San Gaetano , the agora of the Hellenic civilization and, later, the Roman forum .

The existence of a large theatre behind the forum emerged from some writings by the Roman poet Publio Papinio Stazio .

For this reason, some archaeologists of the association decided to monitor the area, and they eventually discovered that in a “ vascio ” – typical Neapolitan house at street level – there were some arches .

By removing the plaster, they found an “ opus latericium “, a masonry made with sun-baked bricks, typical of Roman buildings .

The lady living in that house said that the same type of masonry was also present in her cellar , so archaeologists understood that they were in front of the dressing rooms used by the actors in ancient time .

There was great excitement for this discovery, even though most of the theatre is no longer visible since it is incorporated into private homes .

There are houses containing the parterre and part of the terraces , as theatre was used as basement.

The very last part of the tour is in the “ summa cavea ” of Nero’s Teathre , the highest area of ​​the terraces which, until few years ago, was incorporated into a carpentry .

An exhibition of nativity scenes (“presepi”) from the 1700s is set up inside with a perfect synergy: the representations are Roman ruins in scale, so you can admire the miniaturized remains in the shadow of the original ones of the theatre .

Napoli Sotterranea is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm . Guided tours in Italian are set every hour, while guided tours in English are every two hours.

Reservations are required for tours in French, Spanish and German.

The tour lasts about 1 hour and a half; the ticket price is €10 per person .

Our advice is to wear comfortable shoes and to bring a sweatshirt in summer to put on if necessary, for the underground path is very wet .

We hope to have inspired you to discover this historic and evocative place , and we wait for you in Napoliving to give you all the information you may need .

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Portanapoli

Bay of naples and amalfi coast.

Subterranean Naples – the mysterious underground

A trip to Naples’ underground, which is entwined by mysterious legends, is a special experience and has in the meantime become an important part of the city tours.

Entrance of Napoli Sotterranea – Subterranean Naples (© Portanapoli.com)

In the historic centre of Naples  you can find one of the entrances to the mysterious underworld: Napoli Sotterranea, the Subterranean Naples  (Piazza San Gaetano). It is one of the most famous attractions in Naples . Underneath modern Naples is an 80-kilometer-long labyrinth of caves hidden, which lies up to 40 meters underground. The individual caves were created when people mined the yellow tufa that was used to build the houses that stand above each of these caves.

It is interesting that the cistern system of the Subterranean Naples, which first originated at the time of the Greek colonization, was extended until the 19th century. Using different aqueducts, the surrounding springs were rerouted to subterranean chambers. That way, people could get water from different wells.

Napoli Sotterranea (© Francesca Buommino – Portanapoli.com)

Since 400 B.C., the caves have been used for all kinds of different purposes

They served as secret places of refuge, cult sites, catacombs, and dumps. In the Second World War, people took shelter there during bombing raids. They left impressive drawings of their fears and thoughts on the walls of the caves, which you can still see today.

In past centuries, many poor families have lived in the subterranean caves of Naples

Sometimes, hungry children managed to get through subterranean connections into other people’s houses and take food and other things. For the people they had stolen from, it would seem like their possessions disappeared as if by magic. That’s how the legend of the endearing house ghost Munaciello originated, Naples’ most well known “esoteric” creature. Numerous legends are entwined around this lovable creature that unpredictably appears as a monk with a hood und has things disappear from people’s houses over night. Some Neapolitans think that Munaciello can also be helpful in predicting lottery numbers and finding lost treasures.

More info: How to visit the underground in Naples

Related posts:

• ← Amazing events in Naples
• A Must see: The National Archaeological Museum in Naples →

Stories by Soumya

The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

Tour Of Naples Underground City: All You Need To Know

Last Updated on January 31, 2023 by Soumya

A tour of Naples underground city is one of the best things to do in Naples Italy , apart from visiting the ruins of Pompeii , of course. The tour gives you insights unlike any other and takes you back in time, as long as 2500 years! Whether you are in Naples for a day or more, you should definitely have a subterranean tour on your itinerary.

Naples under the surface is mind-boggling . It is filled with caves, aqueducts, catacombs, public cemeteries, an escape tunnel, an ancient marketplace, and even a Roman theater. It is almost like Naples has a shadow city hidden below the ground. The best part about this hidden city is the fact that it has multiple layers of history. Talk about the Greeks, the Romans, the Bourbons, and the modern Neapolitans – everyone has played an important role in shaping Naples’ underground settlements.

My experience of the Naples underground city was enlightening. It was my first foray into the bowels of the earth and I was impressed by the efforts and the ingenuity of ancient Neapolitans. In this ultimate guide for subterranean Naples, I talk about what to expect on your under-the-ground tour, what tours you can sign up for, and lots of travel tips.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this post. This will be at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help me keep this website up and running. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

Best Naples underground tours

What is naples underground city.

The southern city of Naples in Italy is unique because of its elaborate network of tunnels, caverns, cisterns, cemeteries, and marketplaces under the ground.

More than 2500 years ago, the ancient Greeks dug the first Naples’ tunnels to gather building material for the new town or “Neapolis”. However, it was the Romans who put the tunnels and underground chambers to good use. They converted them into marketplaces and theaters and built aqueducts to transport water. They also used them as underground cemeteries.

My interest in underground cities of the world was first piqued when I came across the BBC series, Italy’s Invisible Cities . After that, I have visited many subterranean, “shadow cities”, including the mighty Derinkuyu and Kaymakli in Cappadocia, Turkey . However, Naples still remains special because it was my first one.

The best part is that a large stretch of Naples’ hidden underground city is now open to public . As you will see in my post below, you can take one or more tours to experience these hidden interiors of Naples.

Types of Naples underground city tours

When I visited Naples for the first time, I thought there was just one underground tour – the Napoli Sotterranea tour . However, over time (and tons of research later!), I have realized that there are many good tours of subterranean Naples – five of which I list here.

Depending on your interests, you can pick and choose which tour you want to take. Whether you wish to see ancient aqueducts, Roman markets, an underground theater, creepy catacombs, Greek necropolises, or a medieval tunnel filled with rusted, vintage cars – underground Naples has something for everyone. You can either couple it with a walking tour of Naples or just do it on its own.

1. Napoli Sotterranea – The most popular Naples underground tour

Napoli Sotterranea is the most popular underground city tour in Naples and is often thought to be the only one. At least, that’s what I thought when I visited Naples for the first time. Later, I realized there were many more.

Whatever the case, the Naples Sotterranea tour is really really good . It gives you an amazing introduction and a very holistic picture of the subterranean city, making this a must-have on every Naples bucket list. If you are a first-timer to Naples, I would highly recommend doing the Napoli Sotterranea tour .

Things to see on Napoli Sotterranea tour

Napoli Sotterranea literally translates into Naples Underground. Here’s what you’ll see on a Sotterranea tour of Naples.

Greco-Roman aqueduct

You’ll need to climb down 136 steps to get to the remains Greco-Roman aqueduct beyond which you’ll see cisterns filled with water. These are the first ever underground aqueducts of Naples. The Greeks dug them, more than 2500 years ago and the Romans used them to supply water to mansions above the ground.

Some parts are narrow and you’ll need a little squeezing in to get through. A few areas are a little dark, so your guide may give you candles for those places.

Roman theater

One of the highlights of the Naples underground tour is seeing the theater where the Roman Emperor Nero is said to have sang and performed himself. It is also called the Theater of Nero . Apparently, he also had a dressing room close by. The walls and ceilings of the theater still have some colors left.

You can access the theater through a secret door at a private residence and that makes the excursion even more exciting. This is a typical Neapolitan home on the ground level that is called “basso” or “low”.

Summa Cavea

After seeing the Roman Theater, you’ll head to an exhibition that showcases several nativity scenes and the community crib. This was originally a part of the ancient theater.

Hypogeum Garden

On the guided tour of Napoli Sotterranea, I was quite surprised to discover a thriving garden in the bowels of the earth. This was the Hypogeum Garden of Naples.

The hypogeum vegetable gardens do not date back to the ancient times but are a recent addition to underground Naples. It is part of a research project where scientists test the growth of plants in the absence of sunlight as well as in the absence of pollution, smog, and harmful microbes.

A hypogeum garden is not what you would be expecting in a regular tour of the subterranean city but it is an interesting addition, nevertheless.

Napoli Sotteranea opening hours

Napoli Sotteranea is open from 9:30am – 6:30am. However, you can visit Napoli Sotterranea only on a guided tour . Tours are available in English & Italian. Here are the times.

• English: 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm, 6:00pm
• Italian: 10:00am, 11:00am, 3:00pm, 5:00pm

How to book your Napoli Sotterranea tour?

Napoli Sotterranea tours are run by an organization by the same name. You can book their tours on their official website here . Honestly, it is not the most user-friendly website that I have seen. Plus, my Italian is really bad.

So, I always use Get Your Guide (GYG) for my tours in Italy. They are the most reliable, available in English, and have easy cancellation policies. ➡️ BOOK YOUR NAPOLI SOTTERRANEA TOUR ON GYG NOW .

Or check for availability here ⬇️

2. Catacomb tour of Naples – 2nd favorite among travelers

Apart from Greco-Roman aqueducts and forums, several ancient catacombs also dot the underground city of Naples. Subterranean Naples is largely made of soft “tufa” rock which makes it super easy to carve tombs in them. The most famous catacombs include those of San Gennaro and San Gaudioso.

• Catacombs of San Gennaro

The Catacombs of San Gennaro (it was here that San Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples, was interred) are the oldest and the holiest. The catacombs first belonged to a noble family in the 2nd century AD and were later used by the church. There are many wonderful things to see here including some of the earliest Christian paintings in the upper catacomb, the crypt of the Bishops, and an underground basilica.

The Catacombs of San Gennaro are open Monday – Sunday, 10:00am – 5:00pm. Guided tours are available in English and Italian and last for an hour.

• Catacombs of San Gaudioso

The second-most important catacombs in Naples are those of San Gaudioso, a North African bishop who came to Naples from Tunisia.

The catacombs date back to the 4th – 5th centuries and feature the tomb of St. Gaudioso and beautiful mosaics and frescoes from the 5th and the 6th centuries. You’ll also find the graves of nobles here, albeit these are more recent – dating back to the 17th century.

The Catacombs of San Gaudioso are open Monday – Sunday, 10:00am – 5:00pm. Tours in English and Italian start at 10:00am and last for an hour.

The Fontanelle Cemetery

One of the lesser-known underground cemeteries of Naples is the Fontanelle Cemetery or the Cimitero delle Fontanelle.

The ossuary started as a place for burying the common people of Naples who could not afford elaborate catacombs. When churches and catacombs overflowed with corpses, Neapolitans started looking at the ossuary for respite. It was also the final resting place for thousands who died during plagues and other epidemics.

With stacks over stacks of human skulls (there are more than 40,000 here!!!) adorning its chambers, the Fontanelle Cemetery is one of the most creepy places to visit in Naples. However, it is also an interesting place to learn about Neapolitan culture, traditions, religion, and pagan rituals.

If you’d like to venture into this unusual part of Naples underground city, sign up for a tour like this one or do a self-guided tour. The cemetery is free to visit but you’ll need to pay if you sign up for a guided tour.

Update: Fontanelle Cemetery is not open to the public currently because of ongoing renovation works. Be sure to check on the official website before you visit.

3. Galleria Borbonia or the Bourbon Tunnel tour

Unlike the other places on this list, the Bourbon Tunnel does not date back to the ancient times. Rather, it is a more recent creation from the 1800s when Ferdinand II from the House of Bourbon commissioned it as an escape route for kings from public uprisings.

Later, the tunnel found use during the Second World War when it was used as a shelter for air raids. Poignant messages of death and desolation are still visible on the walls of the Bourbon Tunnel. After the war, the tunnel became a dumping ground for vintage cars and unused motorcycles.

How to visit the Bourbon Tunnel?

You can visit the Bourbon Tunnel only on a guided tour (in English/Italian) that happens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Tours start at 10:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm, and 5:00pm and are very affordable.

4. La Neapolis Sotterrata – A medieval church with an underground marketplace

La Neapolis Sotterrata includes the Church of San Lorenzo Maggiore and an ancient Roman market beneath the church called the Macellum of Naples.

The most interesting thing about San Lorenzo Maggiore is that it is located exactly at the geographical center of ancient Naples. This is exactly where the ancient Greek Agora and later the Roman Forum was located.

Even though the basilica was commissioned way back in the 6th century, the structure that you see today is Gothic and medieval – the result of several reconstructions. A museum inside the building displays several artifacts relating to the history of Naples. Do not miss the frescoes of the Sisto V Hall and the gothic portal of the Chapter Hall.

The most fascinating bit about La Neapolis Sotterrata is not above the ground but underneath where an original Roman marketplace or “macellum” has been discovered. The macellum was a two-story building filled with shops. You can still see the remains of the original mosaic floor dating back to the 1st century BC.

How to visit La Neapolis Sotterrata?

La Neapolis Sotterrata is the only attraction in underground Naples that you can explore on your own and need not sign up for a guided tour. Though, I would always recommend getting a guided tour for a place like this. A tour guide really helps you put things in perspective and gives you so much information about the different layers of history that envelop the underground city of Naples.

The complex of La Neapolis Sotterrata is open Monday – Sunday, from 9:30am – 5:30pm and you can book your entrance tickets here .

Guided tours are available in English and Italian at different times of the day – check for times here . You can opt for a guided tour at the entrance by paying an extra €2. If you decide to do a self-guided tour, be sure to check out this official flyer that has a ton of information about the site.

5. Ipogeo dei Cristallini – The hidden gem

One of the lesser-known underground gems of Naples is an ancient necropolis called the Ipogeo dei Cristallini or the Hypogeum of the Cristallini Street.

What is interesting is that Ipogeo dei Cristallini lacks any Roman influence and is through-and-through a Greek burial site that still retains original Greek paintings and sculptures. That is very interesting because it is hard to find original Greek paintings anywhere else in the world. Usually, there are a lot of sculptures but the paintings are all gone. That’s what makes Ipogeo dei Cristallini so special.

The tombs at the hypogeum have two levels – upper one for prayers and lower for burying the bodies. At the entrance to some of the tombs, you’ll find Greek Ionic columns that date back thousands of years!

The lower level has sarcophagi (they look similar to ones at the Etruscan tombs of Tarquinia ) adorned with Hellenistic paintings and carvings. Be sure to notice the plush pillows that have been carved out of stone. They look almost lifelike!

How to visit Ipogeo dei Cristallini?

Ipogeo dei Cristallini is open Tuesday – Sunday, from 10:00am – 2:00pm with special tours between 6:00pm – 7:00pm on Fridays. Tours usually last for 45 minutes. Check out more details on the official website here or book your tickets here .

Interactive map for Naples underground attractions

Naples underground tickets

Here are the links to the entrance tickets/guided tours for all Naples underground attractions . Note that most of them are accessible only via guided tours. Only a few like La Neapolis Sotterrata can be seen on a self-guided tour.

• Naples Underground Entry Ticket & Guided Tour (Napoli Sotterranea)
• Fontanelle Cemetery
• Bourbon Tunnel
• Church of San Lorenzo Maggiore + Underground Roman Market (La Neapolis Sotterrata)
• Greek Cemetery at Ipogeo dei Cristallini

Apart from these tours listed above, there are a couple of combined experiences where you can enjoy 2-3 Naples underground attractions for a slightly reduced price. Check them out below.

• Naples Underground + Catacombs of San Gennaro
• Catacombs of San Gennaro + La Neapolis Sotterrata + Ipogeo dei Cristallini

Travel tips for exploring underground Naples

• Most of underground Naples is accessible by guided tours. So be sure to reserve your spot here before you get there. You can opt for English or Italian tours. Tours usually last for an hour.
• Some of the tunnels can be narrow and dingy. If you suffer from claustrophobia, you might want to avoid the underground tours of Naples.
• Be prepared for low light photography. I wasn’t and as you can see, my photographs haven’t come out great.

FAQ for Naples underground

Is the naples underground tour worth it.

A Naples underground tour is absolutely worth it because it not only shows you some magnificent subterranean landmarks of the city such as the underground theater of Nero, the catacombs of San Gennaro, and an ancient Roman market but also gives you an interesting insight into the layered history of Naples.

How long is Naples underground tour?

Underground tours of Naples usually last one hour. They are typically scheduled back to back so that you have several options to choose from.

How do I get to the underground in Naples?

Naples Sotterranea and La Neapolis Sotterrata are located in the historic center of Naples. You can easily get to them by walking if you are staying in the city center. To get to the catacombs and the Greek cemetery of Ipogeo dei Cristallini, which are located in the Rione Sanita district, you have to take the bus or car. Please refer to our interactive map for all directions.

Is Naples underground free?

No, Naples underground is not free to access. You’ll need to pay a small entrance fee to join a guided tour of the underground city. Check for entrance/tour prices here .

Does Naples have an underground?

Yes, Naples has an elaborate underground city that is filled with caverns, cisterns, tunnels, and tombs. Some of the most iconic attractions of subterranean Naples include the Theater of Nero, the Catacombs of San Gennaro, the Bourbon Tunnel, and a Roman Macellum.

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Guided tour of Naples Underground with a local

• Transportation
• Entrance fees
• Entry/Admission - Underground Naples
• Napoli Centrale, P.za Giuseppe Garibaldi, 80142 Napoli NA, Italy
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers
• All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
• Underground Naples
• Teatro di San Carlo
• Palazzo Reale

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Napoli Centrale P.za Giuseppe Garibaldi, 80142 Napoli NA, Italy See address & details
• 1 Underground Naples Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included After the pick up at the hotel, our tour leader will reach with you the most secret area of Naples... the Undergrounds, wear confortable shoes and enjoy the visit! Read more Pass by Duomo di Napoli Teatro di San Carlo Palazzo Reale
• You'll return to the starting point

More to explore in Naples

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Guided tour of Naples Underground with a local provided by Exclusive holidays in Italy

The underground paths of Naples between galleries, catacombs and hypogea

For a real journey through the various historical periods of Naples, the underground paths between tunnels, tunnels, catacombs and hypogea.

Under the churches, palaces, monuments, castles, under the daily life that animates the city, another Naples is hiding, made of tunnels, tunnels and paths, dug into the tuff thousands of years ago.

The Naples of the subsoil which, through its cavities, emulates the Naples of the surface preserving the memory of an ancient past, that of the Greek and Roman, but also more recent. The galleries and cavities were initially built by the Greeks to extract the tuff to strengthen the city walls, while Romans they used it to collect rainwater, forming a complex network of aqueducts that brought water into homes up to 1885. During the Second World War, the tunnels were used by citizens to protect themselves from bombing.

The true belly of the city lies in the subsoil and, thanks to archaeologists and speleologists who have made its foundations accessible, there are today exclusive tour routes between ancient and recent past e.

Underground Naples

One of the first underground routes open to the public is that of Napoli Sotterranea. From 30 years it is possible to visit this fascinating place located at 40 meters of depth , with entrance from Piazza San Gaetano in via Tribunali. Walking through tunnels and cisterns you can admire the remains of the ancient Greco-Roman aqueduct , the anti-aircraft shelters of the Second World War and the remains of an ancient one Greek-Roman theater where the emperor Nero performed.

The itinerary also includes visits to the War Museum, the "Arianna" Seismic Station and the Hypogeal gardens , a kind of greenhouses in the subsoil in which various species of plants are grown, exploiting the humid climate.

Address: Piazza San Gaetano, 68 - 80138 Naples

Bourbon Gallery

Another fascinating underground itinerary is the Galleria Borbonica (or Bourbon Tunnel), found in the 2005 , which connects Palazzo Reale and Piazza del Plebiscito to Piazza Vittoria, crossing the hill of Pizzofalcone. A hidden path wanted by King Ferdinand IV of Bourbon to create one quick escape route for the army . The Tunnel, formed by ancient tanks and aqueducts built in the 600, was inaugurated in the 1855, but remained open only three days. His underground cavities served as anti-aircraft shelters under the bombardments of the Second World War and the population was hiding there for many days when the alarm sounded.

In the visit path you can see vintage cars and motorcycles , ancient statues, but also small beds, kitchen utensils and remains of electrical systems.

Address: Vico del Grottone, 4 - 80132 Naples

Excavations of San Lorenzo Maggiore, Naples Underground

To immerse yourself in the Greco-Roman Neapolis, the so-called Naples Sotterratta , you must visit the excavations of San Lorenzo Maggiore located in the basement of the basilica of the same name in Piazza San Gaetano, Via dei Tribunali. TO 10 meters of depth it is possible to admire the remains of the macellum , the ancient Roman market , with nine shops ( tabernae ) that gave onto the street and where they sold artisanal food and artifacts.

The ancient was found here in the Decumano Maggiore Roman forum , corresponding to the Greek Agora, where the civil and religious center of the ancient city was located and where commercial, craft and political activities took place.

Address: Piazza San Gaetano - 80138 Naples

Cemetery of the Fontanelle

Visiting the Fontanelle Cemetery you can fully understand the deep bond between the Neapolitans and the world of the dead because they practiced the rite of pezzentelle souls . Located in the Health District, it consists of large tufa cavities used by the 1656 to bury the thousands of deaths caused by the plague and cholera. It was at that time that the Neapolitans developed an intense veneration towards the dead and the rite foresaw the adoption of a capuzzella (skull) in exchange for intercession and benevolence. Inside, in addition to about 40000 human remains, one can admire one reproduction of the Grotto of Lourdes , a nativity scene with life-size figures and some famous capuzzelle such as Il Capitano and Donna Concetta.

Address: Via Fontanelle, 80 - 80136 Naples

Catacombs of Naples

A very suggestive route is in the Catacombs of San Gennaro need San Gaudioso , both in the Health District. The first date back to the 2nd century AD, but were enlarged in the fourth century with the burial of the first patron of Naples, Sant'Agrippino . There are two levels: the lower one with tuff cavities created around the Basilica of the saint and the superior that was extended with the arrival of the remains of San Gennaro (today in the Duomo). There is also a crypt and some of the early Christian paintings of the South.

The Catacombs of San Gaudioso are the burial place of this saint who arrived in Naples after his escape from the Vandals. Many Christian symbols are still preserved mosaics and frescoes including the one that portrays the Death that wins over everything, which is said to inspired the Level of Totò . There are still the drains, niches where the schiattmuorti they made the bodies lose their bodies before they were buried.

Address: Catacombs of San Gennaro: Via Capodimonte, 6 - 80136 Naples Catacombs of San Gaudioso: Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità, Piazza Sanità 14 - 80136 Naples

Museum of the Underworld

The Museo del Sottosuolo is located under Piazza Cavour, in the historic center, and is another of the gods anti-aircraft shelters that the population used to shelter from the bombardments of the Second World War. During the excavations and the cleaning operations many were found objects of daily life , but also tools from excavator work and some ampoules used by pharmacies at the time.

The visit is divided into an itinerary between the internal tunnels, but there is also the route " Time Machine "In more intricate passages and in the three underground supply systems: Bolla, Augusteo and Carmignano". It happens that the Museum is also venue of events made suggestive by the underground location.

Address: Piazza Cavour, 140 - 80137 Naples

Greek hypogens to the Virgins

In the Borgo dei Vergini, in the Rione Sanità, interesting sites have been found both for the incredible state of conservation and for what they represent. It is about the hypogea of ​​the ancient Hellenistic necropolis , or Greek tombs that represent a rare testimony in Europe. The most famous are the Hypogeum of the Cristallini and Hypogeum of the Togati .

The first contains some carved tombs representing the only similar example in Southern Italy , while the second is a sepulcher discovered in the 1980 dated between the end of the IV and the beginning of the III century. BC and its name derives from a high relief that portrays one aristocratic couple wearing typical Greek togas. These sites are not always open and are accessible during guided tours organized by local associations, increasingly active in this regard.

Address: Iogogo dei Togati: Via S. Maria Antesaecula, 126 - 80137 Naples Hypogeum of Cristallini: Via dei Cristallini, 133 - 80137 Naples

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