Posillipo is among the most beautiful and exclusive neighborhoods of Naples. The district sits on a hill and is characterized by magnificent villas, between which narrow, winding alleys lead to the sea.
Posillipo district Naples
History and Description
Until the beginning of the 19th century, when the Via Posillipo was constructed, not many people used to live here. After the end of the World War, however, the district has seen a lot of construction work.
Posillipo is best visited on foot. From the Mergellina district you take the Via Posillipo, followed by the Via Marechiaro. At the end, a stairway will lead you to at a famous vantage point, with several restaurants. The Italian traditional song “A Marechiaro” was written here.
Posillipo neighborhood Naples, what to see
On the Capo Posillipo there is the Virgiliano Park, where one can see the most beautiful panoramas. The view Gulf of Naples, with the islands of Capri, Procida and Ischia, is beautiful here, something the many artists who sell paintings in the park eagerly take advantage of.
A second beautiful park is the Parco Pausilypon. A downhill walk from this park leads to the fishing village of Gaiola.
Along the coast some Roman ruins can still be seen, including the residence of Vedius Pollio and a small amphitheater.
The former owner of the Palazzo Donn’Anna is rumored to have thrown her lovers off the castle after she had finished with them.
The Villa Rosebery is the residence of the Italian President when he is in Naples.
The Schilizzi Mausoleum was built for those who died for their homeland during the two world wars.
The Chiesa dell’Addolorata is a neo-classical style church built in the early 19th century, when actually many people first moved into the district. It is now fairly dilapidated and is no longer used.
The tombs of both Virgil and Giacomo Leopardi are situated in the Posillipo district.
Two main streets that are known for their vies are the Via Petrarca and the Via Orazio.
Other attractions are the Sebeto Fountain, Villa Doria D’Angri, Santa Maria di Bellavista Church, Santa Maria della Consolazione Church, Villa Volpicelli, Casale Villanova and the Palazzo degli Spiriti.
Curiosities
The name Posillipo comes from the Greek Pausílypon, which means “respite from worry.”