From pagan to Christian: Naples between myth and mysticism

In Naples, the sacred and the profane, past and present coexist in an extraordinary balance.

This itinerary will take you through places rich in history and mystery, where Christian spirituality intertwines with ancient pagan cults, giving rise to symbols, rituals and beliefs that still survive today.
You will discover the deepest Neapolitan soul, and how the city has transformed its relationship with death into an experience of faith and rebirth.

More than a walk through remarkable sites, this is a journey into the mystical essence of Naples, which continues to fascinate visitors from all over the world.

Starting point: Catacombs of San Gennaro
Estimated duration: about 5 hours

• Catacombs of San Gennaro and San Gaudioso

2nd–4th century AD
Extraordinary early Christian hypogea, where art and faith meet. Here rest the remains of the first Neapolitan saints, in a deeply evocative atmosphere.

• Ipogei dei Cristallini

4th century BC
A unique testimony of the Greco-Roman era, these hypogea reveal the connection between pagan culture and beliefs in the afterlife.

• Fontanelle Cemetery

17th century
Discover the intimate relationship between Neapolitans and death, through the cult of the “anime pezzentelle” and legends of spiritual protection.

• Sansevero Chapel

18th century
Admire the famous Veiled Christ and be captivated by the esoteric symbols that permeate this Baroque masterpiece.

• Church and Hypogeum of Purgatorio ad Arco

17th century
Experience the intense devotion to the souls of Purgatory in this unique place, where the sacred meets popular folklore.

• Church of San Gregorio Armeno and the Blood of Saint Patrizia

16th century
Discover the link between Saint Patrizia, protector of young brides, and the miraculous liquefaction of her blood.

• Church of San Giorgio Maggiore

6th century AD
Admire this early Christian basilica, a symbol of continuity between ancient cults and the emerging Christian faith.

• Archaeological Area of Santa Restituta (Duomo)

4th century AD
Descend beneath Naples Cathedral to explore the roots of the Christian city and its connection with its pagan past.

• Church of Sant’Antonio Abate and the “Buvero”

14th–17th century
Discover the mysterious cult linked to the “Buvero”, a symbol of protection and prosperity.

• Santa Luciella

13th century
A small church known for the cult of the “skull with ears”, symbolising listening beyond the earthly world and spiritual protection.

Flavours

• Rum babà and sfogliatella (riccia or frolla) in Via dei Tribunali
• Fried pizza in the Rione Sanità
• Street food at the Mercato dei Vergini

Craft traditions

• Handcrafted nativity scenes in San Gregorio Armeno
• Amulets and lucky charms near Purgatorio ad Arco
• Handcrafted musical instruments in Via Costantinopoli