Castel dell'Ovo: reviews and practical tips

Visiting Castel dell'Ovo

Two rocks forming a tiny islet, the remnants of a Roman villa, a poet-magician, and an egg. This is the unexpected recipe behind Castel dell'Ovo. Located to the south of Naples, facing the waterfront and the city's upscale neighborhoods, this imposing structure stands as the oldest castle in the city. Perched on its small island, the Megaride, it serves as a concentrated history of Naples and its folklore. Its walls shelter the port of Borgo Marinari, a former fishing village now filled with restaurants. This iconic site, which is currently connected to the mainland, offers an enchanting atmosphere.

A magical castle on a mythical island

Long before Neapolis was founded, Megaride was famous as far away as Greece. Legend claims that the siren Parthenope was buried here. It was the same island that Greek colonists chose as an anchorage in the 7th century BC, and where a wealthy Roman patrician later built the Castellum Lucullanum. The site later saw religious orders establish a monastery, but it was not until 1140 that a castle was finally erected by the Norman King Roger. Over the centuries, Castel dell'Ovo took on its current form, featuring cylindrical defensive towers and a perimeter walk. Its bastioned fortifications overlook a causeway over 100 meters long, and behind it, a long promontory attracts those who love the open sea. The view of the bay and the waterfront is exceptional. This timeless balcony possesses a distinct magic that extends even to its name. The name comes from a legend claiming that the poet and magician Virgile (Virgil) hid an egg with supernatural powers in the castle basement, intended to protect the city from catastrophes. This medieval myth was so persistent that when the structure was damaged in 1370, Queen Joanna I had to reassure the population by claiming she had replaced the egg. It is a remarkable territory, steeped in stories that define history, legends that transcend reality, and a very vivid aura.