What castle in Naples got named after a legend involving a magic egg?

Castel dell'Ovo (Egg Castle) is a seafront castle in Naples, located on the former island of Megaride, now a peninsula, on the Gulf of Naples in Italy. The castle's name comes from a legend about the Roman poet Virgil, who had a reputation in the Middle Ages as a great sorcerer and predictor of the future.



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Myth and history surrounding Castel dell'Ovo Castel dell'Ovo stands on the small island of Megaride, where the Siren Parthenope is said to have been washed up, and is one of the oldest and most characteristic castles in Naples. Its name is linked to the legend of the magic egg which originated in the Middle Ages.

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Legend has it that it was named after the egg of the siren Partenope that the poet Virgil hid underground in the castle. Closed and protected by a cage, the sacred, enchanted egg would have brought good luck to the city if it remained intact.

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Located on the Naples coastline is the imposing Castel dell'Ovo, the oldest standing fortification in the city. According to legend, the Roman poet Virgil hid a magical egg in the foundations of the fortress, promising that if the egg were broken, the city would suffer great catastrophes!

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Castel dell'Ovo, Naples' oldest castle The imposing Castel dell'Ovo is one of the oldest buildings in Naples and can not be missed during a city trip. The castle can be found on a peninsula and you will find nice eateries at the foot and with a beautiful view of the sea.

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In ancient times, Naples was called the “city of the seven castles” because it was the only city in the world that boasted seven castles within its boundaries: Castel dell'Ovo, Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino), Castel Sant'Elmo, Castel Capuano, Castello del Carmine, Castello di Nisida and Forte di Vigliena.

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One of the oldest castles in Naples, Castel dell'Ovo, a fortress of Norman origin, can be found on the seafront, on the ancient island.

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Built by the Normans in the 12th century, Naples' oldest castle owes its name (Castle of the Egg) to Virgil.

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There is no entrance fee. Note that much of the castle interior is used as meeting rooms or office and is not open to the public, in addition some areas continue to be the site of archeological investigations.

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Lungomare Caracciolo Via Caracciolo is one of the most pleasant streets in Naples, stretching alongside the coastline.

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Castel dell'Ovo is believed to present the most breathtaking view of Naples. However, before you reach it, be prepared for a little bit a climbing. It is worth going there – especially that it is for free!

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