Castel dell'Ovo

Castel dell'Ovo, the Egg Castle, is the oldest standing fortress in Naples, built on the small islet of Megaride and linked by a causeway to the fishing harbour of Borgo Marinari, off Via Eldorado in the Santa Lucia district of Campania, Italy. The site was settled in ancient times, and local legend says the castle takes its name from a magic egg hidden in its foundations by the poet Virgil. The present structure dates mainly from the Norman, Angevin and Aragonese periods. Visitors walk across the causeway, past the yachts and small restaurants of Borgo Marinari, and enter the fortress through its ramps and courtyards. Inside are vaulted halls, passages and terraces that are sometimes used for exhibitions, though some rooms may be closed for restoration. The main attraction is the view: from the upper terraces the whole sweep of the Bay of Naples is visible, with Vesuvius to the east, the Sorrento peninsula and Capri on a clear day, and the seafront promenade of Via Partenope curving to the north. Entry is free. A visit takes about one to one and a half hours including the walk along the causeway and a stop at the harbour. The best time for photographs is late afternoon, when the light warms over the bay, and sunset draws the largest crowds on dry evenings. Mornings are quieter for a calm walk around the harbour. The castle is about ten minutes on foot from Piazza del Plebiscito along Via Partenope and makes a natural stop on a waterfront walk toward Lungomare Caracciolo. Opening hours differ between sources, so visitors should check locally before going.