Borgo Santa Lucia, Naples

Borgo Santa Lucia, Naples

Borgo Santa Lucia, commonly referred to as Santa Lucia (Saint Lucy), is a historic district located in Naples. This neighborhood is centered around a street of the same name and derives its name from the presence of the Santa Lucia a Mare basilica, which has been documented as existing since the 9th century. It is interesting to note that, despite local legend suggesting otherwise, the basilica's founding is not attributed to a granddaughter of Constantine I.

One notable historical figure associated with this area is Admiral Francesco Caracciolo, who served in the Neapolitan navy and was ultimately executed by hanging on the orders of Admiral Nelson due to his involvement with the Parthenopaean Republic. Caracciolo's body was cast into the sea but later recovered and now rests in another renowned church in the vicinity, Santa Maria della Catena. An epitaph, placed in 1881, commemorates this event.

During the 1960 Summer Olympics, the Ports of Santa Lucia served as the Olympic harbors for Dragon sailboats (at the quays of Borgo Marinari), Star, and 5.5 Metre classes (at the quays of Molosiglio). Finn and Flying Dutchman sailboats, on the other hand, were housed in Mergellina. It's worth mentioning that HRH Crown Prince Constantine achieved a Gold medal in the Dragon sailboats event during these Olympics.

Santa Lucia has also been the subject of several traditional Neapolitan songs, with the most famous ones being "Santa Lucia" and "Santa Lucia Luntana." These songs hold a special place in the hearts of Neapolitans as they symbolize the emotional experiences of those leaving their homes to emigrate to America.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Naples. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Borgo Santa Lucia on Map

Sight Name: Borgo Santa Lucia
Sight Location: Naples, Italy (See walking tours in Naples)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark

Walking Tours in Naples, Italy

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