Modernism and elegance: Naples between Italian Unification, Belle Époque and Rationalism

Discover an unexpected side of Naples—elegant and forward-looking—where the city reshaped itself after the Unification of Italy, embracing the refined atmospheres of the Belle Époque and the modern vision of Rationalism.
This itinerary will lead you through neighbourhoods and architectural landmarks that reflect a period of profound cultural and urban change, highlighting the city’s ability to evolve while preserving its authentic soul.

An unmissable experience for those who love art, architecture and the charm of modern history.

Starting point: Palazzo delle Poste
Estimated duration: about 5 hours

• Rione Carità

Late 19th century
A district created during the post-cholera urban renewal (Risanamento) following the 1884 epidemic, symbolising social and urban regeneration that transformed the city’s layout.

• Piazza Municipio and Palazzo San Giacomo

19th–20th century
The beating heart of modern Naples, featuring the monumental Palazzo San Giacomo (City Hall) and the Fountain of Neptune, a perfect blend of history and modernity.

• Gallerie d’Italia and Palazzo Banco di Napoli by Marcello Piacentini

1939
The imposing Rationalist architecture of Palazzo Piacentini now houses the Gallerie d’Italia, home to significant art collections.

• The Vomero: Piazza Vanvitelli and Via Palizzi

Early 20th century
Climb up to the Vomero district and admire the scenic Piazza Vanvitelli and the elegant Liberty-style architecture of Via Palizzi, symbols of a refined residential area.

• Via dei Mille and Palazzo Mannajuolo

Early 20th century
Along this elegant street stands Palazzo Mannajuolo, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau (Liberty style), famous for its iconic spiral staircase.

• Piazza Amedeo and the works of Lamont Young

Early 20th century
With Villa Maria and Castello Aselmeyer, architect Lamont Young brought a romantic and avant-garde touch to early 20th-century Naples.

• Mostra d’Oltremare

1937–1940
With its futurist atmosphere, modern architecture and expansive green spaces, it represents a masterpiece of Italian Rationalism.

Flavours

• Gourmet pizza in Vomero and Fuorigrotta
• Rum babà in Piazza Amedeo

Craft traditions

• Contemporary design and fashion in Via dei Mille