Ep 8. Beneath Vesuvius: Naples

Beneath Vesuvius: Naples is the eighth episode of the first season of the show Cities of the Underworld. This episode takes viewers on a journey beneath the city of Naples, Italy, to explore the hidden tunnels and passageways that lie beneath the ancient city.

The episode begins with the ominous view of the looming Mount Vesuvius, which has erupted many times in history, most famously in 79 AD when it destroyed the nearby cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. The episode then delves into the history of Naples, which has been conquered by many different civilizations throughout its history, including the Greeks, Romans, and the Spanish. This diverse and storied past has left its mark on the underground world of Naples, and the episode sets out to explore these hidden treasures.

The host of the show, Don Wildman, meets with local historians and experts to gain insight into the history and significance of the underground world of Naples. He begins by exploring the Catacombs of San Gennaro, a complex of underground tombs that dates back to the 2nd century AD. These catacombs were the final resting place of many early Christians, and they offer a fascinating glimpse into early Christianity in Naples.

Next, the episode takes us to the tunnels of the Bourbon Gallery, which were built in the 19th century by King Ferdinand II of Bourbon. These tunnels were meant to serve as an escape route for the king in case of a rebellion, but they were also used to carry water to the city during times of drought. Don explores these tunnels on foot, and he marvels at the engineering ingenuity that went into their construction.

The episode also explores the ancient aqueducts that supplied the city with water, such as the Aqua Augusta, which was built in the 1st century BC and still provides water to the city today. Don ventures into the hidden chambers and tunnels of the aqueduct to learn about its history and how it was able to survive for so many centuries.

Perhaps the most fascinating part of the episode is when Don travels to the ancient Roman city of Neapolis, which lies beneath modern-day Naples. This ancient city was buried by a volcanic eruption in the 1st century AD, but much of it has been excavated and restored in modern times. Don walks through the ancient streets and buildings of Neapolis, gaining insight into the daily lives of its inhabitants.

The episode ends with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, which houses many ancient artifacts from the city's past, including the famous Farnese Bull, a massive sculpture depicting the mythological story of Dirce. The museum also contains many artifacts from the destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum, which were buried under the ash and debris of Vesuvius' eruption.

Overall, Beneath Vesuvius: Naples is a fascinating exploration of the hidden world beneath one of Italy's most historic cities. It offers a glimpse into the many civilizations that have shaped the city's past and showcases the engineering, architecture, and artistry that went into creating this underground world. Viewers will walk away with a newfound appreciation for the history and culture of Naples and its people.