Villa Comunale

The most prominent and visible park in Naples is none other than Villa Comunale. It stands on reclaimed land, as early records show that this area used to be rather swampy, with the sea coming right up to it. It is approximately a kilometer long promenade, stretching between Piazza Vittoria on the east and Piazza della Repubblica on the west. A favourite of many, it is a tourist attraction due to its playgrounds, outdoor roller rinks, and tree-lined walking paths. This lush green seaside strip was built in 1780 by King Ferdinand IV between the main body of the city of Naples and the small port Mergellina. He decided that he wanted a large wooden area along the coast for royal family members to stroll in. Originally a royal garden, it was reserved for members of the royal family, but was open to public on special holidays such as the Festival of Piedigrotta on September 8. The park was opened to the public permanently in 1869 after the unification of Italy.
This beautiful park, which divides Riviera di Chiaia from Via Francesco Caracciolo and the sea, contains a vintage Anton Dohrn aquarium, tennis club, and at least eight fountains. The aquarium doubles up not only as an exhibition of marine flora and fauna but also as a research facility for marine biology studies. Inside the Florentine Renaissance building, tourists will also come across interesting murals by the German artists Hans von Marees. The park can be visited free of cost by all. During fall and winter, it is open from 7 am to 10 pm while in summer and spring, it is open till midnight.