The Castel dell’Ovo, or Castle of the Egg, is a 15th-century castle on the peninsula of Megaride, just off the Naples shoreline. The site was important to both the Greeks and the Romans who occupied the land. The first structure, built in the 12th century, was renovated numerous times and remained a seat of power for many centuries. Today, explore the simple stone building with its twin towers, and walk amid the 15th-century architecture. Learn the history of the area’s people in the Museum of Prehistory, which occupies part of the building.
The name of the castle refers to a local legend. The poet Virgil allegedly placed a single, magic egg under the stone foundations of the castle to keep it safe from ruin. The legend said that as long as the egg remained intact, the castle would be spared destruction.
Enter the main Hall of the Columns with its elegant stone floor and large pillars. The Museum of Prehistory has regular exhibitions looking at the ancient civilizations that lived in the area. Ceramics, clothes and other artifacts of daily life are collected here. The two towers, Torre Maestra and Torre Normanna, offer excellent views toward Naples and beyond to Mount Vesuvius. See the old cannons facing out from the tower walls.
The castle is connected to the mainland by a causeway that is over 330 feet (100 metres) long. It is a popular place for photos, especially for newlyweds visiting the area.
Castel dell’Ovo is open daily. Admission is free. Ticket prices for the Museum of Prehistory vary depending on the exhibition. Take a local bus to Saint Lucia on the shoreline and walk down the causeway. For lunch, walk among the former fishermen’s houses in the area of Borgo del Marini. These narrow streets surrounding the castle are now filled with small fish restaurants and cafés.
