Italy > Birthday in Naples

In the breakfast room, we meet Rita. It’s her birthday today—she has turned eighty. We congratulate her. The small breakfast area is a bit of a squeeze. Inside, there are four tables; outside, three more. After breakfast, we stroll into Naples. Beneath the glass dome of the Galleria Umberto I, we order coffee with pastries. A beautiful location to celebrate a birthday. The shopping arcade, with its stunning glass ceiling, was built at the end of the 19th century and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Just past the arcade lies Piazza del Plebiscito, the city’s main square. On one side stands the Palazzo Reale di Napoli, and on the other, the Basilica Reale Pontificia.

Italy - Celebrating a birthday in Naples

The church resembles the Pantheon in Rome. Its façade consists of pillars, above which rises the 53-meter-high dome. Originally, the building was meant to honor Emperor Napoleon. After Napoleon’s expulsion in the early 19th century, construction continued under King Ferdinand I, who dedicated the church to Saint Francis of Paola. On the opposite side of the square is the royal palace. Through the tall entrance gate, we enter the palace. A grand double marble staircase leads to the first floor, where the royal suites are located. Gorgeous marble floors, colorful wall decorations, enormous paintings, and golden chandeliers fill each room. Every chamber is a jewel to behold. The royal throne dates back to 1850. Groups of children also visit the palace, all dressed formally. Whether this is specifically for the visit or in preparation for Carnival is unclear. From the palace, we walk to the promenade. Across the bay, Mount Vesuvius rises. The 1,281-meter-high volcano stands out beautifully against the clear blue sky. We settle at a terrace with a view of the impressive volcano, ordering drinks and a light snack. The sun shines, but the wind makes it quite chilly. After lunch, we continue to Castel Nuovo. This medieval castle sits by the water, and its five massive towers immediately catch the eye.

Italy - The beautiful interior of the Royal Palace in Naples

Inside, the Barons’ Hall is the most remarkable feature. King Ferdinand I invited rebellious barons to the castle for a celebration—but instead of a party, he had them arrested in the Barons’ Hall. One wing houses the Museo Civico with various artworks. The upper floors of the museum can only be reached by a small, slow elevator; the staircase is closed—strange. From the balustrade on the third floor, we have views over the city and harbor. Unfortunately, we cannot enter any of the towers. We wander back to the hotel through narrow streets. In a café next to the hotel, we enjoy a drink. In the restaurant opposite, we have dinner. A lovely end to a birthday day.