Local Traditions & Customs in Naples, Italy

1. Neapolitan Pizza Making

Learn the art of making authentic Naples-style pizza in a traditional pizzeria.

Hand-Stretched Dough: The dough is hand-stretched, not rolled with a machine.
Use of Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, locally sourced ingredients are used for the sauce and cheese.
Quick Baking Time: Baked in a wood-fired oven for just a few minutes.

Celebrate the Patron Saint of Naples during the San Gennaro Feast Day, filled with processions and religious rituals.

Blood Miracle: The liquefaction of the saint's blood is considered a miracle.
Neapolitan Devotion: A testament to the deep faith and devotion of Neapolitans.
Citywide Celebration: The entire city comes together for this grand celebration.

Visit intricate Nativity scenes known as Presepe, showcasing traditional Neapolitan craftsmanship.

Detailed Scenes: Presepi often depict daily life in ancient Palestine and contemporary Naples.
Handcrafted Figurines: Figurines are hand-carved from terracotta or wood, each with unique details.
Community Efforts: Some Presepi are the result of collaborative efforts within neighborhoods.

Explore the history of traditional Neapolitan masks and puppetry at this unique museum.

Traditional Marionettes: Features intricately carved wooden marionettes.
Mask Making Workshops: Offers mask-making workshops for visitors.
Theatrical Performances: Hosts live performances of traditional Neapolitan puppet shows.

Stroll down the historic Spaccanapoli street, lined with baroque palaces and traditional pizzerias.

Historic Architecture: Features some of the most beautiful examples of Baroque architecture in Naples.
Traditional Food Shops: Home to many traditional food shops selling Neapolitan specialties.
Lively Atmosphere: Known for its lively atmosphere, especially during the evening hours.

Visit the Veiled Christ statue, a unique baroque sculpture covered in veils of wax and cotton.

Baroque Sculpture: Represents Christ after the Crucifixion, with wounds still visible.
Veiling Tradition: The statue is veiled during Easter and some other religious holidays.
Local Devotion: A symbol of Neapolitan devotion to the Passion of Christ.

Experience a traditional tarot card reading with a local fortune teller in Naples.

Historic Practice: A practice dating back to the 15th century in Naples.
Personalized Readings: Tarot card readings are tailored to individual concerns and questions.
Unique Interpretations: Neapolitan tarot readers use unique interpretations of the cards.

Try the famous Majorana sfogliatelle, a delicate pastry filled with ricotta cream.

Flaky Shell: The shell is made from thin, flaky layers of pastry.
Rich Filling: The filling is a sweet ricotta cream flavored with citrus zest.
Legendary Bakery: Majorana bakery has been making sfogliatelle since 1860.

Shop for traditional Neapolitan crafts and gifts at the bustling Naples Christmas market.

Handcrafted Items: Features handmade items such as Presepi, dolls, and nativity scenes.
Festive Atmosphere: A festive atmosphere with lights, music, and food stalls.
Local Culture on Display: A glimpse into Neapolitan Christmas traditions and craftsmanship.

Visit the National Archaeological Museum of Naples to see artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Rich Collection: One of the world's most important collections of Greek and Roman artifacts.
Famous Artifacts: Includes the Farnese Bull, Alexander Sarcophagus, and Mosaics from Pompeii.
Insight into Ancient Life: Provides valuable insights into ancient Roman and Greek life.

Take a moment to admire the grand architecture of Piazza del Plebiscito and the Royal Palace.

Impressive Architecture: Features stunning Baroque and Neoclassical buildings.
Historic Significance: Site of the plebiscite that united Naples with Italy in 1860.
Central Location: Serves as a gateway to other key attractions in Naples.

Meet the Neapolitan Mastiff, an ancient breed of dog native to Naples.

Ancient Breed: Dates back to the Roman Empire.
Protective Nature: Known for their loyalty and protective instincts.
Massive Size: Large in size, typically weighing between 50-150 kg (110-330 lbs).

Experience the lively and energetic Neapolitan tarantella dance.

Traditional Music: Accompanied by traditional Neapolitan music.
Spinning Movements: Characterized by rapid spinning movements and energetic jumps.
Cultural Significance: A symbol of Neapolitan identity and resilience.

Visit the Capodimonte Museum to see paintings by Caravaggio, Titian, and other masters.

World-Class Art Collection: Home to some of the most important works in Western art.
Royal Palace Setting: Located within the beautiful Royal Palace of Naples.
Italian Art History: Provides a valuable insight into Italian art history.

Join a vegetarian food tour to sample Naples' diverse and flavorful vegetable-based dishes.

Vegetarian Cuisine: Explores the rich world of Neapolitan vegetarian cuisine.
Tour Guided by a Local: Led by a knowledgeable local guide.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots: Visits lesser-known spots serving delicious vegetarian dishes.