The origin of Pizza

I’ve always believed in the connection between Naples and Pizza. I’ve never given a second thought why is that so, thinking that the name of this marvelous dish sounds italian enough. My fellow friend, with whom I travel a lot has decided to try to test this connection. We ate three normal size Pizzas that day and topped it off with a local delicacy - the Sfogliatelle - a shell-shaped pastry with a sweet or creamy filling - with each layer magnifying the taste.

Narrow alleys of the South

Many European cities in the basin of the Mediterranean Sea have significantly narrower alleys. But in Italy, as opposed to common sense, these small alleys are in fact roads for scooters, or even cars. One of such single-track vehicles is a beautifully designed Vespa my heart would long for, if only I wasn’t scared of driving a two wheel.

The order of the buildings

Naples is located on a dozen hills, and it lies close to Mount Vesuvius. A great need for a place to stay subsequently converted steep slopes into actual housing. The entire cityscape of the city is striking - looks nowhere near to a Northern grid. This what I would call mess is in fact what enriches the experience of italy and hispanic countries.

There are buildings on top and behind the hill.

Inside the Cathedral

The cathedral of Naples is a beautiful piece of architecture, comparable to the Papal basilicas in Rome.

The fountain of Neptune

There are two castles in Naples, one of which - Castel Nuovo - is located in the port district, and the second right above the first, with a perfect city view. I have taken all cityscape photos at Castel Sant’Elmo.

Gallery of Umberto I

The structure is a lookalike of Galeria Vittorio Emanuele II, located in the very centre of Milan. The major difference between both is not the architecture, but what’s located inside the shopping area. Milanese one is known for high fashion and expensive stores, where as in Naples - Starbucks. In the country which loves coffee - unacceptable.

Porta Capuana

Porta Capuana originally passed through the medieval city walls. Now is a free standing structure, with beautiful carvings inside the archway. I only photographed the main part, omiting two bastion towers, which still stand today.

Rail Station Shopping

Contrary to classical architecture and romanesque elevations a new mall below ground has emerged. The structure is located at the Giuseppe Garibaldi square, right near the entrance of Napoli Centrale train station.