Naples is a city that bursts with life, heart, and artistic expression. This vibrant and creative spirit reveals itself in many forms, but one of the most extraordinary is street art. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through Naples’ urban art scene, along with other unmissable artistic wonders to experience during your visit.
Street Art in the Spanish Quarters
Let’s begin in the Spanish Quarters — a labyrinth of narrow alleys and steep stairways that unwind from Via Toledo, where chaos and creativity fuse into a brilliant explosion of color and imagery. Here you’ll find some of the most iconic examples of Neapolitan urban art, including:
- Quore Spinato by Cyop & Kaf: This project led to the creation of over 200 artworks on doors, garages, walls, and windows. The artists worked closely with the local community, giving life to a small illustrated atlas of the neighborhood’s emotions and stories.
- Works by Francisco Bosoletti: An artist who left a lasting mark with remarkable pieces, including works created under the Ultravioletto project. Bosoletti’s murals reveal hidden details when viewed through an ultraviolet filter.
- Maradona and other famous figures: Numerous artworks honor icons such as Diego Maradona, Totò, and Luciano De Crescenzo.
The best advice? Get lost in the alleys of the Spanish Quarters — only then will you discover these authentic urban masterpieces.
Street Art in the Rione Sanità
Rione Sanità is a neighborhood that escapes the tourist crowds and remains one of the most emblematic districts of Naples. Here, you can taste some of the city’s best pizzas at Concettina ai Tre Santi or indulge in a Fiocco di Neve pastry from Poppella. But food isn’t the only highlight — the area is also home to remarkable street art:
- RESIS-TI-AMO by Bosoletti: A tribute to a local love story, painted on the façade of the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità.
- Speranza Nascosta by Bosoletti: Another work from the Ultravioletto project — though weathered, it’s still visible on the door of the La Tenda community center.
- Tienime, ca te tengo by Jerico Cabrera Carandang: Celebrating the Neapolitan people’s spirit of resilience and sharing, this piece is located on the pillar of the Maddalena Cerasuolo bridge.
- Luce by Tono Cruz: A tribute to the boys and girls who live in the alleys, symbolizing hope for the future. It’s located in front of the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità.
- Nu ‘mmescà ‘e fantasme cu ll’angiule: Curated by Collettivo FX, this mural is yet another extraordinary artistic presence in Rione Sanità.
Banksy in Naples
One of the city’s most unexpected surprises is “Madonna with a Gun” by Banksy, located in Piazza Gerolomini, at the heart of the historic center. This piece portrays the complex relationship between organized crime and religion. It’s protected by a glass case to preserve it as best as possible.
Parco dei Murales in Ponticelli
The Parco dei Murales in Ponticelli is a hidden gem on the outskirts of Naples. Here, internationally renowned artists such as Fabio Petani, La Fille Bertha, Rosk&Loste, Hope, Zeus40, Jorit, Mattia Campo dall’Orto, and Zed1 have created large-scale murals. Their works explore themes like play, solidarity, and the value of motherhood. The project actively involved the local community and stands as a powerful example of how art can inspire social change.
EX OPG Je so’ pazzo
In the Materdei neighborhood stands the former monastery and psychiatric prison, now known as Casa del Popolo – Je so’ Pazzo. Once a facility for detaining individuals with mental health issues, today it has been transformed into a shared space offering cultural and sports activities to the community. Some of its outer walls are adorned with urban artworks, including an iconic mural by BLU depicting one of the former inmates — a deeply moving piece and a tribute to the fight against the stigmatization of mental illness.
The Circumvesuviana as a Neapolitan Subway Gallery
The Circumvesuviana is a regional train network connecting Naples with its surrounding towns. The trains and stations are often adorned with graffiti and murals, transforming a simple ride into an experience reminiscent of 1980s–90s New York’s subway art culture.
San Gennaro and Other Works by Jorit
Jorit is one of Naples’ most celebrated street artists, famous for his large-scale, expressive portraits. Among his most iconic works is the mural of San Gennaro, located next to the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore in Forcella. This piece portrays the city’s patron saint, with a face inspired by the everyday people of Naples — a powerful symbol of identity and community.
Jorit’s other works include tributes to Maradona, Che Guevara, and various sports figures. His murals are scattered throughout the city, each one a bold celebration of cultural diversity and collective strength.
Murals Dedicated to Maradona
Diego Maradona is far more than a sports legend in Naples — he is a symbol, an icon, almost a deity. Countless murals throughout the city pay homage to him. Beyond those found in the Spanish Quarters, Jorit’s “Dios Umano” mural in San Giovanni a Teduccio is particularly striking. From paintings to posters, Naples continuously honors the legacy of its beloved number ten.
Discovering Naples Through Its Street Art
Exploring Naples through its street art is a unique experience. Let yourself be swept away by the city’s creative energy and uncover the artistic marvels hidden within its streets. Each mural tells a story — of people, struggles, dreams, and hope — transforming Naples into a living canvas of expression.
