Naples explained to kids

Naples is a city in southern Italy, on the west coast of the peninsula of Campania. Naples is the capital of the region of Campania and of the province of Naples. With a population of over 967,000 people, it is the third most populous city in Italy, after Rome and Milan. Naples is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its historic city center is the largest in Europe and is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The city was founded by the Greek settlers in the 8th century BCE. It was an important hub for trade and culture between the Greek and Roman worlds. The city was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE but was later rebuilt. Naples became a key center of the Italian Renaissance in the 15th and 16th centuries. In the 18th century, it was the site of the first European university, the University of Naples Federico II. Naples has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city is also known for its volcanic activity. Mount Vesuvius, the only active volcano on mainland Europe, is located just outside the city. Naples is a popular tourist destination. It is home to many historical and cultural sites, including the Royal Palace, the San Carlo Opera House, and the Naples National Archaeological Museum. The city also has a vibrant food scene, with a variety of traditional Neapolitan dishes on offer.