Castel dell’Ovo – a place of legend, history, and mystery

History and description

Located on the ancient islet of Megaride, from which Parthenope originated before being occupied by various populations, Castel dell’Ovo, built in yellow tuff stone, was erected by Roger the Norman in 1440. The addition of its three towers, however, came only with the intervention of Frederick II. During the Angevin reign, it served as the seat of the royal treasury and as a prison where, for example, Conradin of Swabia and the sons of Manfred were confined. Its current appearance mainly dates back to its possession by the Aragonese, who definitively transformed it with a view to military expansion. Today, the castle features, on the outside, the Ramaglietto pier, the Torre Normandia, and the remains of the churches of San Salvatore and San Pietro. Inside, it houses numerous halls, including Sala Italia, Sala Sirena, the Antro di Virgilio, and the Sala delle Carceri, which often host cultural events and exhibitions.

Curiosities

The name of the fortress is closely tied to the legend that Virgil, considered a magician, hid a magical egg in its underground chambers. If broken, it was believed to bring countless catastrophes upon Naples. The legend was so powerful that, when collapses occurred in 1370, Queen Joanna I swore she had replaced the egg to prevent panic among the population.

Access

The castle is open every day from 9:00 am, with slight variations on Sundays, and can be visited free of charge. Occasionally, an entrance ticket is required only for exhibitions held inside.

How to reach it

Situated in the very center of Naples, the fortress can be reached by car, with several paid parking areas nearby, by public transport such as metro lines 1, 2, or 6, or buses to Via Partenope, and finally on foot from the historic center.

Completely immersed in history, legend, and mystery, Castel dell’Ovo is an unmissable stop for those who want to fully experience Naples and all its beauties, while enjoying an unparalleled panoramic view during the visit!

Cover photo credits: ColorMaker