Naples Underground

The Greeks quarried tuff from beneath the city to build it, leaving cavities that the Romans linked into an aqueduct system with cisterns under most buildings, supplied by wells that householders used until a cholera outbreak in the nineteenth century closed them. During the Second World War the cisterns were converted into air raid shelters, and objects left by the people who sheltered there remain in place. Tours descend about forty metres by stairs and pass through narrow connecting passages, some so tight they are crossed sideways by candlelight. A Roman theatre where Nero is said to have performed sits under houses nearby.

What to look for

• The Greek quarries - cavities cut to build the city above.
• The Roman cisterns - aqueduct chambers under the old centre.
• The wartime shelter - objects left by those who sheltered below.
• The Roman theatre - a buried theatre reached through a house.

When to go

Year-round; it holds a constant cool temperature. Tours run at set times in several languages and book out on weekends. Allow about ninety minutes.

Practical notes

Some passages are extremely narrow and crossed sideways, which rules the full route out for many. There are many stairs and no lift. Entry is guided only.

Nearby

Spaccanapoli is above; the Sansevero Chapel is close.

Key facts