Naples

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Naples (Italian: Napoli) is a major city located in southern Italy. During the Renaissance, the city was the capital of the Kingdom of Naples, the biggest Italian state before the Unity. The city lies at the foot of Monte Vesuvio.

In the early 1500s, Cesare Borgia used the facilities in the Port of Naples to construct a Naval Cannon small enough to be placed on a gondola, as designed by Leonardo da Vinci. The designs and the prototype Cannon were destroyed by the Assassin Ezio Auditore da Firenze before they could be put to

use.

History

Napoli

Being over 2,800 years old, Naples has its roots in Greek settlements that were founded during the 6th century B.C.E. Throughout its existence, ownership of the city changed numerous times and went from Romand to Goths and back. In the Middle Ages, the Normans took control of the city and managed to remain in power for 300 years, despite the leaders and nobles fighting over the ownership amongst themselves. French rule over Naples started in 1501 under King Louis XII. However, it only lasted until 1505, when Spain, led by King Ferdinand, seized power. Under Spanish rule, Naples became one of Europe's biggest cities.

Porto di Napoli

The Port of Naples

Main article: Porto di Napoli

The Porto di Napoli was located east of the Castel Nuovo, and had always been a center of commerce for Naples. The porto was built in the 9th century B.C.E. by the Greeks, and grew along with the city.

Castel Dell'Ovo

Castel Dell'Ovo (Egg Castle), including the causeway to the mainland

Main article: Castel dell'Ovo

The Castel Dell'Ovo was a castle located on the former island of Megaride. The castle was named after a legendary Roman poet, who was also believed to be a powerful sorcerer.

Monte Vesuvio

Main article: Monte Vesuvio

The Vesuvio was one of the most famous volcanoes in Italy, having destroyed both Pompeii and Herculaneum in its eruption in 79 C.E. Ever since that catastrophe, the volcano has erupted three dozen times, and is still considered one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world.

Mount Vesuvius, as seen from the Bay of Naples.

Gallery

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  Chaos in Naples.