Le Tredici Discese Di Sant’antonio, Napoli

The Ramps of Sant’Antonio: a balcony overlooking Naples, between history and romance

A route of thirteen descents, commissioned by the Spanish viceroy de Guzman in 1643 on an ancient track, connects Chiaia to Posillipo.

The ramps, now narrow and with hairpin bends that challenge drivers, lead to the panoramic square built in 1970, a famous and romantic observation point.

At the summit, the Church of Sant’Antonio, which gives its name to the route, has stood watch since 1642. But it’s at night that the terrace becomes magical: the ideal place for a lover, overlooking the sea and the firmament of city lights stretching endlessly beneath.