Corso Vittorio Emanuele , Napoli

Corso Vittorio Emanuele: The Panoramic Road Commissioned by the Bourbons

NAPLES – Stretching nearly 5 km, Corso Vittorio Emanuele is one of Naples’ most scenic and significant thoroughfares. Commissioned by Ferdinand II of Bourbon to connect the city center to the nascent Vomero neighborhood, it was designed by five architects, including Errico Alvino.

Hastily inaugurated in 1853 as Corso Maria Teresa, it was completed in sections. The sovereign even issued a decree to preserve the view of the gulf, limiting construction on the seafront. After the unification of Italy, it took its current name in honor of the first king.

Completed in 1873 up to Piazza Mazzini, where the statue of Embriani (often mistaken for Mazzini) was placed, the street has retained its charm. In the 20th century, the final stretch was pedestrianized, transforming into an elegant promenade and shopping area, preserving its splendid view of the gulf.