Vomero is today one of the most elegant and lively neighborhoods of Naples, but it preserves an ancient soul that is still felt among the streets of Antignano, a hillside village that holds precious memories linked to the city's history and its patron, San Gennaro.
The origin of the name Antignano
The etymology of the term "Antignano" is fascinating: some scholars connect it to the Latin term ante januam ("in front of the door"), as it was located near the ancient access roads to Naples. This locality was indeed a fundamental passage point for those traveling between the city and the Campi Flegrei.
San Gennaro and the first miracle
It is right here, in Antignano, that tradition holds the first miracle of San Gennaro took place: the miracle of the liquefaction of blood, which occurred when the saint's relics were transported along the ancient Via per Colles, the Roman road that connected Pozzuoli to Naples and was mainly used for commercial traffic.
Even today, three churches in Vomero testify to this special connection with the city's patron:
- San Gennaro al Vomero
- La Piccola Pompei
- San Gennaro ad Antignano
The market and popular traditions
Antignano is also synonymous with living and popular tradition. Its market, one of the most colorful and lively in Naples, welcomes hundreds of visitors every day. During Easter, the evocative rite of "Il mistero di Antignano" comes to life here, an event that blends devotion and folklore, making this place even more unique.
A Renaissance village among villas and literati
During the Renaissance, the Vomero hill was frequented by literati and illustrious men. Among them, Giovanni Pontano, a humanist and poet, owned a splendid villa with gardens and citrus groves in Antignano: a place of otium and inspiration that speaks of the cultured soul of the village.
Walking along the ancient Via per Colles
Walking along these streets today means retracing the steps of history. The ancient Via per Colles - which connected Pozzuoli to Naples - is the same route that saw the passage of San Gennaro's relics, and over the centuries has preserved its symbolic value intact.
Discovering Antignano starting from the Wanda B& B
Staying at the Wanda B& B, in the heart of Vomero, means having this extraordinary village at your fingertips. Starting from Piazza Vanvitelli (corner of Via Bernini), it is possible to embark on a journey that combines faith, history, and popular tradition, discovering the most authentic and hidden face of the Neapolitan hill.
👉 A perfect walk for those seeking a cultural and spiritual experience away from the usual tourist itineraries.
