Napoli

Naples was exactly as I'd expected. Shabby, busy, polluted, but completely likeable. There were small alleys and streets everywhere with balconies and washing hung out. Scooters and bikes dominated the streets and there was real hustle and bustle. It had a very different feel to Northern Italy.

There were plenty of beautiful churches to look round, and nice piazzas to wander around. I went to see The Veiled Christ which was very special. It's a sculpture of Jesus post crucifixion, laid down and covered with a veil, with the crown of thorns and handcuffs next to his feet. It looks so real. How the sculptor was able to imitate the fall of the fabric over the body and the bones and sinews of His feet was incredible. No photos are allowed but it is definitely worth a google!

We walked up to the castle to get lovely views over the bay (not completely dissimilar to Swansea's!) and enjoyed just walking around the place. At dusk, the streets all became open air markets selling lots of handicrafts, including Christmas decorations. Although it was still October, the atmosphere was lovely!

Vesuvius in the background

The lovely Shona

Napoli is the birthplace of pizza. It has been my favourite food for a long time so it was one of the first things I sampled after arriving....and repeated daily! The pizza is thicker than traditional Italian bases, but so tasty and delicious!